The Indianapolis Colts have finalized their 53-man roster for the 2025 season, including undrafted rookie cornerback Johnathan Edwards. Edwards was one of the few UDFAs to earn a spot, reportedly receiving $280,000 guaranteed, which placed him sixth in guaranteed money among all undrafted free agents across the league.
Edwards spent his 2024 college season at Tulane after three seasons at Indiana State, an FCS program. At the FBS level, he allowed a completion rate of 54% and averaged 8.6 yards per target on 26 passes in his coverage, according to PFF. He predominantly lined up outside at cornerback, while also offering some experience inside the box and in nickel roles.
With the Colts, Edwards quickly drew positive attention. Colts defenders backs coaches were said to be “really impressed” with the rookie, and he received opportunities to work with the first-team defense during practice when injuries at cornerback created depth chart opportunities. In the preseason, Edwards yielded two receptions on eight targets for 18 yards, a showing that helped solidify his place on the roster.
A veteran evaluator praised Edwards’ instincts and ball skills, noting that Edwards is a player who routinely puts his hands on the football and has the willingness to come up and make tackles in run support. He has some work ahead, but the traits that teams look for in a cornerback—playmaking potential, tackling willingness, and versatility—are evident in his game.
Edwards earned his roster spot by outperforming a group that included veterans Chris Lammons, JuJu Brents, and Samuel Womack, highlighting the Colts’ confidence in his long-term potential and special-teams value as a rookie.
Overall, Edwards’ selection to the 53-man roster adds a young, versatile option to the Colts’ secondary depth. If he continues developing, he could contribute not only on defense but also on special teams as he adjusts to the NFL level and the Colts’ defensive scheme.
Summary: Johnathan Edwards, an undrafted rookie cornerback who joined the Colts after a standout college path from Indiana State to Tulane, secured a place on the 53-man roster with notable rookie-season potential, a solid preseason showing, and a guaranteed deal that reflected the Colts’ belief in his upside.
Additional note: For fans and readers, keep an eye on Edwards’ progression through training camp practices and early-season special-teams opportunities as he continues to adapt to NFL-level competition and the Colts’ defensive calls. If you’d like, I can add a quick glossary of terms or a quick comparison to similar UDFA success stories to help readers put Edwards’ path in context.