ESPN: The Indianapolis Colts have strengthened their starting roster ahead of their match-up against the Titans with the addition of their….

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Indianapolis Colts have claimed former San Francisco 49ers starting cornerback Ambry Thomas off waivers. Thomas’ agents Drew Rosenhaus and Ryan Matha first disclosed the waiver claim; subsequently, the Colts verified it.

Originally a third-round selection from Michigan, Thomas immediately established a position in the 49ers’ cornerback rotation. Starting five games in 2021, he registered 23 tackles and an interception with five passes defended in the defense of defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans.

Thomas spent 2022 as reserve but returned to the starting lineup in 2023. Starting two postseason games on the 49ers’ path to the Super Bowl, Thomas participated in almost half of the defensive snaps taken by the team last season. Thomas started 11 of 42 games with the 49ers, accumulating 79 tackles, two interceptions, and 12 passes defensed.

Since August, Thomas has been on injured reserve following a preseason fracture of his forearm. The 49ers dismissing him presented another chance elsewhere since he was slated to be an unrestricted free agent following the season.

The Colts had claimed a 49ers cornerback this season before as well. Indy claimed Samuel Womack III from San Francisco during the roster cutback process following the preseason.

Since cornerback JuJu Brents’ September injury, Womack has been very vital on the Colts’ defense. Womack started at outside cornerback and this season he has shown 29 tackles, an interception, and eight passes defensed.

After assigning Brents to return from injured reserve earlier today and with Thomas being claimed, the Colts clearly are assessing the future of their cornerback room with three games left. For most of the season, the starts have been Kenny Moore II, Jaylon Jones, and Womack. Although Moore and Jones seem to be starting candidates going forward, the other starting place will be highly sought for in competition.