Colts' Reich: Eason, Ehlinger to split 1st-team reps

The Indianapolis Colts' starting quarterback job seems to be up for grabs in the wake of Carson Wentz's injury.

Rookie signal-caller Sam Ehlinger split first-team reps with Jacob Eason on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Mike Wells. Head coach Frank Reich said Ehlinger earned the snaps and that it wasn't an indication that Eason is struggling.

"This is a meritocracy, and Sam has looked good, so we decided to split it up," Reich said after practice, according to The Athletic's Stephen Holder. "The good news is they both looked sharp today. We'll continue to split those reps."

Ehlinger goes 3 for 4 in his first action against starting D. Hit Hilton for about 18, a slant to his TE, and check down to Hines. Had a batted ball and a sack.

- Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) August 10, 2021

However, Reich said Eason will likely start Sunday's preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, per Wells.

The Colts head coach previously said the team was moving forward with Eason as the starter with Wentz sidelined. A fourth-round pick in 2020, Eason has yet to play a snap in the NFL.

Ehlinger was drafted in the sixth round this year after recording 11,436 passing yards over four seasons at Texas.

Wentz is expected to miss 5-12 weeks after undergoing foot surgery.

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