Colts confident in Jacob Eason, Sam Ehlinger if Carson Wentz not ready for Week 1

The timeline for Carson Wentz to return for the Indianapolis Colts remains unclear after the veteran quarterback underwent foot surgery earlier this month. 

However, there remains optimism that Wentz could be ready for Indy's Week 1 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. 

Even if Wentz is unable to suit up next month, Colts head coach Frank Reich is confident either Jacob Eason or Sam Ehlinger will be just fine, according to the Indianapolis Star. Reich specifically referenced both quarterbacks' performances during the Colts' preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.

"I thought he went out there and showed himself well," Reich said of Eason. "There are times where (his timing) needs to be better, I think you're seeing that right at times, but I think he's making good progress. He's very coachable, and I think he's getting better each day and each week. Shoot, I'd [say the] same thing about our other quarterback (Ehlinger). He had times where he was a little slow on the trigger, so he needs to speed that up, but there were also a lot of good flashes as well. Real good decision making, real good timing and then made good throws."

Eason completed 15-of-21 passes for 183 yards and Ehlinger completed 10-of-15 passes for 155 yards and an interception in Indy's 21-18 win over Carolina. 

However, Eason and Ehlinger have never taken an NFL snap outside of the preseason, so it certainly won't be ideal if Wentz misses an extended period of time. 

The Colts acquired Wentz from the Eagles during the offseason in hopes he would revive his career alongside Reich, who said earlier this summer he was very confident Wentz could bounce back this year after an abysmal 2020 season.

The 28-year-old went 3-8-1 with the Eagles last season, throwing for 2,620 yards and 16 touchdowns against 15 interceptions before being benched in favor of Jalen Hurts.