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[Indianapolis Colts]

What to make of Daniel Jones’s early success with the Colts

The Indianapolis Colts have been one of the best teams in the NFL to start the season, with free-agent signee Daniel Jones being one of the most surprising revelations so far in 2025.

Jones, who primarily spent the 2024 season as a backup with the Minnesota Vikings after getting released by the New York Giants, has been off to an incredible start, throwing for 816 yards and three touchdowns. He’s currently completing 71.6 percent of his passes, leads the league in EPA/play, and still poses enough of a rushing threat.

Entering the season, Jones was in a quarterback competition with former first-round pick Anthony Richardson, but things cleared up after the latter suffered an injury in the preseason, although Jones always seemed like the favorite to win the starting job.

So far, he’s proving that head coach Shane Steichen has made the right decision, as the Colts are one of six undefeated teams so far.

What can we take away from Jones’s early success, and what does that mean for Anthony Richardson going forward?

Through three games, Jones looks like a different quarterback. He’s been much more accurate downfield, albeit in a smaller sample size, and has been very efficient while limiting turnovers, which had been his biggest problem in New York.

Jonathan Taylor has been on a tear to start the season, which has made Jones’s life easier. But, he looks the part of a starting-level quarterback, and it would take unexpected circumstances for him to lose the job at this point.

As for Richardson, Colts general manager Chris Ballard made it clear before the season that the team had no interest in trading the former first-round pick. But, with Jones’s ascension, it feels like that could potentially change to give the 2023 No. 4 overall pick a fresh start.

Richardson has started only 15 games in his career, due to a series of injuries. A quarterback clearly in need of development entering the NFL, the Florida Gators product started only four games in his rookie year and struggled in his sophomore campaign over 11 starts, throwing 12 interceptions in that span.

It was clear that the Colts were going to bring in competition this offseason. And now that Jones has shone, it’s hard to envision a path for Richardson to start in Indianapolis. He could very well be expendable now, as there are teams that could look to tap into his potential and development.

Do you think the Colts should try to trade Richardson? What would a trade compensation package look like? Which teams might be interested? Weigh in below in the comment section.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...s-colts-daniel-jones-anthony-richardson-trade

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Speedy wideout and special teams returner good to go for Colts vs. Rams

The Indianapolis Colts announced one update to their injury report, as 2nd-year wideout Anthony Gould (illness) had his questionable designation removed on Saturday just ahead of Sunday’s road game against the L.A. Rams.

The former 2024 5th round pick of the Colts remains a blazing fast backup wideout, but has made the majority of his mark on special teams so far this season.

Appearing in all 3 games for Indianapolis, Gould has 3 punt returns for 4 total yards, as well as 6 kickoff returns, averaging 30.2 yards per kick return.

That being said with Colts top deep threat Alec Pierce (concussion) already ruled out for Sunday, having not passed the league’s concussion protocol, Gould could be poised for at least a limited situational role off the bench.

While fellow 2nd-year wideout AD Mitchell should draw the majority of the reps in relief of Pierce, it’s possible that both Gould and Ashton Dulin could be used as rotational wideout options as speedy downfield targets for starting quarterback Daniel Jones and the Colts passing game.

So far, right guard Matt Goncalves (toe), wide reciever Alec Pierce (concussion), and veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II (Achilles) have all been already ruled out.

Veteran defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (back/rest) still has a ‘questionable’ designation, but it would be highly surprising if he’s not available for Sunday’s game and in the starting lineup. The Colts are likely just trying to keep their longtime Pro Bowl defensive tackle fresher for the marathon that remains the NFL’s regular season.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...l-teams-returner-good-to-go-for-colts-vs-rams

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts elevate new potentially key veteran CB amid roster moves before Rams game

The Indianapolis Colts announced on Saturday that backup cornerback Mike Hilton and offensive guard Josh Sills have been elevated to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s road game against the Los Angeles Rams.

With veteran slot corner Kenny Moore II (Achilles) projected to be out a few weeks, the Colts signed veteran slot cornerback Mike Hilton, who previously played under their new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, when the pair was recently together with the Cincinnati Bengals (2021-24).

Hilton has said he could definitely play right away (if called upon) and “expects to play a good bit.”

The 31-year-old veteran cornerback had 73 tackles (50 solo), 5 passes defensed, an interception during 16 games (10 starts). In his 8-year NFL career, he has appeared in 123 games (56 starts) with both the Bengals (2021-24) and Pittsburgh Steelers (2017-20).

Meanwhile, Sills elevation was only logical after starting right guard Matt Goncalves has already been ruled out with a toe injury, having not practiced all week.

While 2nd-year offensive guard Dalton Tucker is expected to fill in relief of Goncalves within the Colts’ starting lineup at right guard, Sills was presumably added for extra interior depth.

With both the Colts and Philadelphia Eagles, Sills has appeared in 18 career game. He did not appear in a game for the Colts last season, but did appear in 17 games for Indianapolis back in the 2023 campaign.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...veteran-cb-amid-roster-moves-before-rams-game

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Multiple AD Mitchell Mishaps Loom Large in Loss to Rams

The Indianapolis Colts had just retaken the lead late in the form of an electric, 76-yard touchdown reception from Daniel Jones to AD Mitchell, except they didn’t. They actually turned the ball over, and it wasn’t anything the Los Angeles Rams defense did. Unfortunately for Colts fans, this is far too familiar a mishap.

AD Mitchell did the hard part, hauling in a contested grab on 3rd and 4, and then evading two nearby defenders as he tightroped the sideline for the rest of the way. As soon as he approached paydirt, however, is when focus was lost, and so was his first career touchdown.

Channeling his inner Jonathan Taylor versus the Denver Broncos in 2024, Mitchell lost control of the ball within a yard of the goal line and subsequently fumbled it out of the back of the end zone for a touchback. It’s up in the air whether or not he was celebrating too early or was merely trying to manage the out-of-bounds marker as he extended for the goal line, but regardless, Mitchell’s mishap negated six points as well as turned the ball over.

It was simply unacceptable, and Mitchell knows this. “I just lost focus…It was a play that can’t happen. Just unacceptable. I’ve got to be better for the organization,” Mitchell said to James Boyd of The Athletic following the loss. “Try to move forward, learn from the previous mistakes, and get better.”

Head coach Shane Steichen did make it a point of emphasis to hold onto the ball so that Jonathan Taylor’s mistake is never replicated. Alas, not even a full calendar year later has resulted in more of the same. Couple that with Mitchell’s well-documented acclimation to the pros, and it makes sense why, after finally breaking through with a big play on Sundays, the young wideout is taking it extra hard. However, props are also in order to Mitchell for not ducking the media, something other teams have already seen happen through the short season thus far.

“Letters and logos,” Mitchell revealed as the motto that Steichen emphasized regarding Taylor’s (and now Mitchell’s) mishap. “Holding the ball through the letters and logos. Finishing through the end zone.”

AD Mitchell’s rough performance unfortunately didn’t end there, either. Late in the fourth quarter, tied 20-20, just beyond the 2-minute warning, superstar running back Jonathan Taylor broke one deep for a 53-yard touchdown to take the lead. That potential game-sealer was wiped out with a holding penalty by Mitchell. His rough day will certainly be talked about the most; however, this was a team effort chock-full of mistakes. The Colts had a season-high 11 penalties charged for 88 yards lost, with miscues scattered throughout, made by nearly every player and coach. That’s not to absolve Mitchell of his shortcomings, but rather to show that this game was not solely lost because of one player’s performance.

Shane Steichen has spearheaded his tenure as the Colts’ head coach with an emphasis on accountability, and since that’s more or less been carried out by him and his staff thus far, the same can be expected for Mitchell’s playing time moving forward. Indy certainly doesn’t want to rush back Alec Pierce as he works back from a concussion he suffered in Week 3, but veteran wideout Ashton Dulin has more than proven over the years that he’s a reliable spot-starter when called upon. The people calling for Mitchell’s job are understandably emotional, but there’s simply no reason to give up on a guy when there’s enough depth to fill the void as he works through the kinks.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...mitchell-mishaps-loom-largest-in-loss-to-rams

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

No, the Colts shouldn’t cut AD Mitchell for recent goal line gaffe. Let’s be real.

This past Sunday, the once undefeated Indianapolis Colts (3-1) narrowly fell to the Los Angeles Rams 27-20, as 2nd-year wideout AD Mitchell’s egregious 2nd half mistakes proved to be costly to overcome.

While he also had a later offensive holding call that wiped out a 50+ yard potentially game-winning Jonathan Taylor touchdown run, the clearly bigger blunder of the two was Mitchell failing to properly secure the football while crossing the goal line on an otherwise would-be impressive, highlight reel 56-yard touchdown catch and run from starting quarterback Daniel Jones that should’ve ended up with 7 points for the Colts early in the 3rd quarter—and the Colts only down 10-13.

Instead, Mitchell lost control of the football prior to crossing the plane, when attempting to switch hands in anticipation of prematurely celebrating, and it ended up as a touchback with the Rams gaining possession.

It’s the time of bonehead play that simply can’t happen—and shouldn’t have by any stretch of the imagination.

It’s also noteworthy because a similar situation happened with Colts start running back Jonathan Taylor late last season, and Mitchell was on the team as a rookie. Clearly, nothing was learned from that recent embarrassment.

I’m not sure what it is with the Colts and properly crossing goal lines, as since demoted 3rd-year quarterback Anthony Richardson also let up near the goal line in Week 2 at Houston during his rookie season back in 2023, and suffered an avoidable concussion. It’s been three years of three goal line mental mishaps respectively.

That being said, one of the reoccurring sentiments I’ve surprisingly seen on Twitter (X) and in our reader comments, is that Mitchell should be cut for this latest Colts’ goal line gaffe.

Look, I’m all for holding players properly accountable when deserved, and there arguably should be some ramifications issued by the Colts coaching staff for Mitchell’s bonehead play (i.e., even a healthy scratch for a game or two, especially if deep threat Alec Pierce is back next week), but let’s be realistic here.

He’s too talented to cut right now and is still only 22-years-old.

This isn’t a fringe 53-man roster player just fighting for a spot that the Colts could arguably easily replace, regarding a lower level backup on the depth chart. Mitchell has an elite NFL skill-set with his ability to consistently separate, and it’s coupled with an also tantalizing size-speed combination.

Let’s not forget that had the fumble not happened (and I was literally mid-text texting my longtime Colts buddy, “AD MITCHELL” in call caps with no context needed) that it would’ve gone down as one of the greatest catches in recent Colts franchise history. Good thing I didn’t hit send though. The catch itself does speak to Mitchell’s immense upside and ability though as a young wide receiver in the league.

Completely different set of circumstances, but I always think back to when team owner Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys passed on Randy Moss back in the 1998 NFL Draft because of off-the-field concerns. It ended up biting them, as he became a Pro Football Hall of Famer, and one of the greatest wideouts in NFL history.

Moss benefited from having veteran Cris Carter’s presence early on in his career while at Minnesota, while Mitchell continues to work with Colts wide receivers coach Reggie Wayne among other potential NFL mentors.

Hopefully, that pairing eventually pays off for both Mitchell’s early development and the Colts’ investment—and increasingly tested patience.

Not saying Mitchell is Randy Moss by any means yet, but the point being that you can’t write a young player off or give up on him too early, especially if they’re talented enough to wait on and hope that they mature. So far, Mitchell’s talent, ability, and upside still outweigh the past mistakes (even as egregious as Sunday’s were).

That won’t always continue; however, meaning that his maturity and focus have to immediately improve going forward. NFL teams will wait, but only so long, or if the issues outweigh the talent, they’ll cut ties entirely.

The Colts have to hope that this is a major learning lesson for Mitchell, as well as his teammates, and is something that should never happen again.

Cut? Absolutely not.

Bench? Yes, to better reinforce that player accountability.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...chell-for-recent-goal-line-gaffe-lets-be-real

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Report: Colts poach practice squad linebacker from Cowboys

According to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson, the Indianapolis Colts are signing linebacker Buddy Johnson off the Dallas Cowboys practice squad:

#Colts news: Signing linebacker Buddy Johnson off #Cowboys practice squad, per a league source. Former #Steelers fourth round pick from @AggieFootball @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/Bodci4G4Fw

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 30, 2025

The former 2021 4th round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been well traveled in his early NFL career, having also spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and most recently, the Cowboys organization.

At 6’2”, 240 pounds (with 31 1/2” arms), Johnson has appeared in 21 career games, recording 14 tackles (8 solo). Coming out of Texas A&M, he had a RAS of 9.22 out of a maximum of 10.0. He definitely has some elite physical measurables to take note of.

He appeared in 1 game for the Cowboys so far this season, playing 82% of the team’s special teams snaps in Week 1. However, he played in 14 games for Dallas last season, recording 8 tackles (3 solo).

The Colts could be kicking the tires on additional linebacker depth. Specifically, the team hasn’t found a clear answer alongside reigning All-Pro linebacker Zaire Franklin, despite trying a number of different options rotationally.

It’s worth noting though that rehabbing 2nd-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies (ankle), who was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return to begin the season, is eligible to return to practice this week. However, Colts head coach Shane Steichen was non-committal when asked whether Carlies would actually return to the practice field for Week 5.

At this point though, I’m not sure that the Colts can realistically expect much more from Johnson than the others they’ve already tried rotationally—all of whom are better suited as backups than first-team defensive starters.

That being said, it doesn’t hurt to at least try, as the status quo hasn’t been providing nearly enough production.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-poach-practice-squad-linebacker-from-cowboys

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey Week 5

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Colts fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indianapolis-colts-odds/115571/colts-reacts-survey-week-5

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts shuffle up slumping linebacker position with pair of roster moves

The Indianapolis Colts announced on Tuesday that the team has claimed Dallas Cowboys linebacker Buddy Johnson off Jerry Jones’s practice squad and waived fellow linebacker Cameron McGrone in a corresponding roster move on the final 53-man roster.

Regarding Johnson:

The former 2021 4th round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been well traveled in his early NFL career, having also spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and most recently, the Cowboys organization.

At 6’2”, 240 pounds (with 31 1/2” arms), Johnson has appeared in 21 career games, recording 14 tackles (8 solo). Coming out of Texas A&M, he had a RAS of 9.22 out of a maximum of 10.0. He definitely has some elite physical measurables to take note of.

He appeared in 1 game for the Cowboys so far this season, playing 82% of the team’s special teams snaps in Week 1. However, he played in 14 games for Dallas last season, recording 8 tackles (3 solo).

Meanwhile, McGrone was a former 2021 5th round pick of the New England Patriots. He’s been with the Colts organization since late in the 2022 season. He’s appeared in 26 career games for Indianapolis, recording 13 tackles (8 solo). He played in 4 games for the Colts so far this season, making 2 tackles (1 solo).

The Lawrence Central native was in the mix for the starting linebacker job at the Will alongside reigning All-Pro Zaire Franklin, and ended up in the 1st-team defense linebacker rotation to begin the season.

However, McGrone put together some initially underwhelming film out there and didn’t play a single defensive snap last weekend. Per PFF, he earned a +28.2 overall grade so far this season, which ranks 130th among 131 qualifying linebackers.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...linebacker-position-with-pair-of-roster-moves

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts struggling veteran CB Xavien Howard announces abrupt retirement

Indianapolis Colts veteran cornerback Xavien Howard announced his retirement on social media, after just 4 starts—and having returned to the football field this year after a season-long absence.

Xavien Howard just posted to Instagram:

“I cannot thank the Indianapolis Colts enough for letting me continue to live out my dream but my dream has now changed.” pic.twitter.com/jXy6kv9PSF

— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) October 1, 2025

The Colts also announced that they have placed Howard on the reserve/retired list and signed safety Trey Washington from the practice squad to the team’s active 53-man roster.

Howard missed Wednesday’s earlier practice because of ‘personal reasons,’ but we now know it’s because he’s hanging up the football cleats for good.

Per ESPN’s Stephen Holder, the choice was reportedly Howard’s, and there was no forced decision by the Colts because of the threat of imminent release.

The 32-year-old veteran cornerback, who was signed shortly before the season started and immediately inserted into the starting lineup because of injuries at the Colts cornerback position, clearly struggled after a year-long layoff, as he did not play football in 2024.

He started in all 4 games for the Colts, recording 11 tackles (7 solo). He was picked on early and often by Los Angels Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua this past weekend in coverage, as the pairing had great success. Per PFF, his +36.1 overall grade this season was ranked just 156th of 164 qualifying cornerbacks.

Opposing QBs when targeting Howard through 4 weeks, per PFF:

– 16-22 (72.7% comp)
– 195 receiving yards surrendered
– 3 TDs allowed
– 0 PBUs/INTs
– 139.2 passer rating against
– 4 penalties committed

— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) October 1, 2025

For me though, it wasn’t just that he looked a step slow out there in coverage—and really all season, but in Week 4’s tough road loss, the effort was also visibly lacking. That’s something that Howard can clearly control.

If Howard didn’t pick it up soon, the Colts were going to have to make a decision on his future status with the team. However, Howard just made that decision easy for them.

Acknowledging he had serious off-the-field issues later in his career, Howard finishes his playing days as a 2x NFL All-Pro and 2x NFL Pro Bowl.

Unfortunately for the Colts, his best days were well before with the Miami Dolphins and this season in Indianapolis, he was clearly in the twilight of his playing career—essentially running on empty.

The Colts are likely turn to both Mekhi Blackmon and undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards to replace him on the outside opposite CB1 Charvarius Ward.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-cb-xavien-howard-announces-abrupt-retirement

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

ESPN speculates Colts QB Anthony Richardson ‘open’ to trade to top play calling team

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Indianapolis Colts quarterback is an intriguing trade candidate ahead of early November’s league deadline—as he could be reportedly ‘open’ to going to a top offensive playcaller:

“Outside of that, there’s not a clear-cut need for teams, barring injury. One intriguing option is Anthony Richardson Sr., who is stuck behind Daniel Jones in Indianapolis,” writes Fowler.

“My sense is Richardson would be open to joining a premier playcaller such as Sean McVay as a developmental player so he can reset for 2026.”

Honestly, this doesn’t seem like necessarily new information, as Fowler and his ESPN colleague Dan Graziano previously reported that the since demoted 3rd-year quarterback and his representation “broached the idea of a trade with Colts general manager Chris Ballard”—although they weren’t demanding it at that time.

If I were an NFL quarterback looking to continue my development elsewhere with elite level coaching, it would make sense to go to a ‘quarterback whisperer’ of sorts with either the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, or San Francisco 49ers—if given the potential option.

However, one could make the case that such a list of quarterback gurus includes Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who’s had prior success with Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts, and even turned quarterback Gardner Minshew into a first-time career Pro Bowler with Indianapolis back in 2023.

Given reclamation project Daniel Jones’s initial success, and it’s a fair question of whether the issue is not Steichen, but rather Richardson’s inability to master the offense and take his craft seriously enough.

This honestly seems like a national media created story—and possible public distraction for the Colts, who so far are off to a hot start at 3-1 and were a few 2nd half mishaps last weekend on the road against the Rams from remaining undefeated at 4-0.

At any rate though, I do think it’s too early to safely declare that Jones is the long-term answer for the Colts after just 4 starts, so that Richardson’s presence now becomes an afterthought and luxury.

One, because it’s not the first time that Jones has shown flashes of exceptional quarterback play. After all, he once earned a 4-year, $160M contract extension back in March of 2023. The sample size here is still pretty limited. Two, he hasn’t necessarily been the gold standard for durability during his 7-year NFL career, and given his utilized mobility, it makes sense to have a capable backup.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ardson-open-to-trade-to-top-play-calling-team

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts kicker Spencer Shrader named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month

Indianapolis Colts kicker Spencer Shrader has been named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for September.

SPENCER SHRADER pic.twitter.com/ETHCYJUvUm

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 2, 2025

Shrader, a former undrafted free agent from Notre Dame, is the first Colts kicker to receive this achievement since future Hall-of-Famer Adam Vinatieri earned the same honors in October of 2016.

While Shrader spent much of his rookie season as part of Indianapolis’ practice squad, he also temporarily played for both the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs last season. Entering the 2025 season, the Colts’ vote of confidence for Shrader, despite his inexperience, was noticeable. Indianapolis signed Shrader to a two-year deal, which then led to them eventually releasing veteran kicker Matt Gay.

A month into the 2025 season, the Colts are off to a 3-1 start, and it certainly helps that Shrader has been as good as Indianapolis could’ve hoped for. The second-year kicker has accounted for a league-best 51 total points, including converting on 92.9 percent of his 13 field goals. Shrader has also gone 12-for-12 on all of his extra points.

Shrader’s best moment thus far came during Week 2, when he nailed a game-winning, 45-yard field against the Denver Broncos and helped lift Indianapolis to its first 2-0 start since 2009. Shrader and the Colts will look to continue their great start Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...r-named-afc-special-teams-player-of-the-month

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts vs. Raiders Week 5: Players to watch

Once again throwing out the disclaimer here, this is a series where we will look over underrated players that could end up having a significant impact on the game, not the usual “Watch out for Jonathan Taylor! He is really good!”.

---

Adetomiwa Adebawore​

Adebawore has been enjoying a breakout season so far, an unexpected one. He had a career game against the Rams on limited snaps, facing perhaps the hardest quarterback to pressure in the NFL because of his IQ and how fast he gets the ball out. Geno Smith, Raiders’ quarterback, is not characterized by either a strong pocket presence, or getting the ball out fast, giving the Colts’ pass-rushers a prime opportunity to have a massive effect on the game. Adebawore has solidified his status as the main rotational defensive tackle, displacing Eric Johnson II, and slowly eating into Neville Gallimore’s snaps. With how creative Anarumo is with his defensive line, watch out for Ade Ade on Sunday.

Johnathan Edwards​

UDFA Johnathan Edwards has played just 11 snaps, but with cornerback Xavien Howard suddenly retiring, after getting absolutely demolished by Puka Nacua, there is a decent chance that Edwards will be starting for the Colts on Sunday. The Raiders’ receivers are not as dangerous as Puka and Davante Adams, but they can still give the Colts’ headaches. If Anarumo decides to have Charvarius Ward follow Jakobi Meyers, then that would leave Edwards lined up against Tre Tucker, who is leading the Raiders in touchdowns, and is a player who can take the top off the defense on any play. It showed against the Rams that no matter how good the other secondary players are, if the opposing team identifies a clear weak link they can just dedicate themselves to exploiting that, so hopefully Edwards holds up better than Howard.

Mike Hilton​

With Kenny Moore once again most likely out for the game, Mike Hilton will be once again the starting nickel cornerback. Now like I said before, opposing teams will just continue picking on the weak link of the secondary, and if Edwards ends up being solid, that could easily be Hilton, who had not played in a long time before the Colts signed him. The Raiders rotate what receiver they use in the slot, with either Meyers or Tucker getting some reps there, and if they identify the opportunity to attack there, Hilton could end up seeing a lot of work.

Stone Forsythe (Raiders)​

Raiders’ left tackle Kolton Miller will miss Sunday’s game after suffering a high-ankle sprain that also resulted in a hairline fracture. The Colts would be wise to try and exploit new starting tackle Stone Forsythe. Even though he has an amazing name, has been a subpar pass-blocker his entire NFL career. Laiatu Latu is coming off the best game of his career, and should be salivating at the prospect of going up against Forsythe. There is also the chance that the Raiders are forced to use their tight ends and running backs more in pass-protection, which would lift a massive weight off the linebackers shoulders, considering how bad they have been in pass-coverage.

Kyu Blu Kelly (Raiders)​

Alec Pierce looks like he will be ready to play on Sunday, taking back the No. 2 wide receiver role opposite of Michael Pittman Jr. He was missed against the Rams, because of Mitchell’s mental mistakes that costed the team the game, and will probably be opposite Kyu Blu Kelly (seriously the Raiders have the coolest names in the NFL man). Kelly has been targeted 21 times so far this season, and has been the weak link in the Raiders’ secondary.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115743/colts-vs-raiders-week-5-players-to-watch

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Daniel Jones and Colts passing offense matchup well against Raiders defense

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has not only rebounded his career to become an MVP candidate through the regular season’s first month of play, but he’s unlocked a part of himself. Thanks in large part to head coach Shane Steichen’s usage, Jones has quickly blossomed as one of the league’s worst passers under pressure and/or while blitzed to one of the best.

Heading into the season, Daniel Jones’ career passing numbers under such duress resulted in an uninspiring outlook. Even throughout training camp and preseason play, there was subpar play from Jones in these areas, certainly not enough to predict such an emergence. According to Pro Football Focus, Jones was a career 61.9% thrower when blitzed (466-758) and a brutal 49.8% passer under pressure (384-771).

Fast-forward to a month of regular-season ball with the Colts, and Jones has proven to be lethal against both pressure and/or blitzes. Ironically enough, he’s even struggled at times under zero pressure while thriving against what once was his crux as a quarterback. According to Next Gen Stats, Daniel Jones was under pressure on a season-high 48.6% of his dropbacks against the Los Angeles Rams, yet thrived in those situations, completing 12 of 15 passes for 198 yards and 1 touchdown. Conversely, Jones struggled when not facing pressure from the Rams, completing 12 of 18 passes for just 64 yards while throwing both of his interceptions.

It’s difficult to understand why these aspects have seemingly flipped. Perhaps a regression to the mean is on the way, but at least Jones has proven that he can succeed under duress through the season’s first month of play after a career of shortcomings in said area. Through four weeks, Daniel Jones has generated the highest dropback success rate (61.5%) and gained the most passing yards (470) of any quarterback against the blitz, per Next Gen Stats.

This Sunday will be a solid test for Daniel Jones and his newfound self in the pocket. Superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders travel to Indianapolis as they search for their second win of the season. The good news for Jones and the Colts’ passing offense is that the Raiders’ playstyle on defense emulates what they’ve thrived against thus far. According to Next Gen Stats, the Raiders have blitzed on 32.7% of opponent dropbacks, the 10-highest rate in the NFL. They’ve generated pressure on only 32.0% of their blitzes, good for the 8th-lowest rate leaguewide.

Daniel Jones has been phenomenal under duress so far this season, and this week will serve as another test to see if the real Danny Dimes is lurking, waiting to return, or if Indiana Jones was the real quarterback under the mask the entire time.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...-offense-matchup-well-against-raiders-defense

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

What is the best use of the Colts limited cap space?

The trade deadline is Nov 4, following our week 9 tilt in Pittsburgh. Our salary cap shows about 4.5 million according to Spotrac. We are not a weak team with massive areas of need, but if I am general managing as though my job depended on making the playoffs, I don’t think I’d leave a chamber empty. That amount is not a lot of wiggle room, unless you plan on moving a player that also has some salary to come off of your total. There could be a couple of cut options.

Free agency is a possibility, but 4.5 mil does not go very far there either.

Let’s start with the wish list, in no particular order:

Number 2 CB.

Ward is taking half of the field away, so whoever is the #2 is going to be targeted. Is Howard’s replacement already on the roster? Washington was added to the 53 man roster over Lammons. Your choice might be Edwards or Blackmon, although Blackmon could be considered more of a slot presence. Hilton filled in admirably for Moore last week, could Kenny move outside in a pinch? It is likely Edwards this week, but it certainly feels like there is room for improvement. Waiting for an injured J. Jones feels somewhere between overly optimistic and reckless.

I did see one column that suggested Cam Taylor-Britt for a conditional 5th, which would basically use up the entire cap space. Bringing back Stephon Gilmore has been brought up, but can he be had for the cap space and what does he have left?

Linebacker(s)

In my humble opinion, this is our weakest link. Our middle is very soft in pass defense and as bad as Howard was, he could have had some underneath support. Franklin is not thriving in this defense and I’m not sure of his value if he is not leading the team in tackles, although that could be a byproduct of the new system. He is currently tied with Buck for third in the category. Bachie is not exactly a coverage asset either. Hopefully, Carlies is the answer upon his return. Franklin could actually have some value in a trade with a team getting pounded on the ground.

Could we consider a bigger Safety in this role? Thinking outside that box might see putting Cross at the Will and Thomas across from Bynum. I can’t see that being received well from the masses. Maybe Scott when healthy?

Pass rush specialist.

While Latu seems to be filling his potential as a first round draft pick, we are not hearing the name on the other side very often. Paye’s production is not matching his salary nor playing time. Maybe he is doing what is required? If the main idea is to push the pocket back and not to lose your lane, he might be doing as instructed. He’s carrying around a 14 mil cap number, so he’s only attractive to someone looking to trade a contract with multiple years, for an expiring contract.

Some have suggested more snaps for Adebawore, even if it is out of position. Hendrickson is popular pick, but a package for him does come with a great deal of difficulties.

Seasoned, versatile OL.

The line didn’t look the same as it did with the core group out there. My worry is that I think we see the same drop off, no matter who might become unavailable. It may not be a talent issue, but only Pinter has much game experience among our backups. There always seems to be a big ugly that is ready to come in and play, ala Glow. It might be a good insurance plan.

I have no answer for this one, as you never know who picks up the phone.

Maybe hold tight until we are sure of the biggest need?

As always, your thoughts are appreciated.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115702/what-is-the-best-use-of-the-colts-limited-cap-space

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: LB Franklin Misses Practice

The Indianapolis Colts released their Wednesday injury report today for Week 5 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

wednesday's practice report for #LVvsIND. pic.twitter.com/lDwJC1YdIj

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 1, 2025

Linebacker Zaire Franklin missed practice with an ankle injury today. Franklin has been a mainstay on the Colts’ defense and is a leader in the locker room. The Colts’ linebacker play has been bad for a while, but the team can’t afford to lose Franklin with the current lack of depth behind him.

Right Guard Matt Goncalves was limited at practice today with a toe injury. Goncalves missed a full week of practice and last Sunday’s game due to the toe injury, so it is good to see him making progress. Goncalves has been brilliant this season in his first year starting at guard, and the team can’t really afford to have him missing a prolonged time.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice today with an Achilles injury. Moore is still not practicing and will continue to miss game time. Expect him to be ruled out quickly this week, too.

Alec Pierce was a full participant at practice day. Pierce missed last week’s game due to a concussion. He continues to remain in the league’s concussion protocol, but a full practice today means he is likely to clear the protocol and play Sunday.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...lts-injury-report-lb-franklin-misses-practice

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts head coach has discouraging, yet limited injury update on kicker Spencer Shrader

According to head coach Shane Steichen post-game, “it doesn’t look good” regarding now injured Indianapolis Colts place kicker Spencer Shrader (via 1075 The Fan’s Kevin Bowen):

Shane Steichen on Spencer Shrader's right knee:

"It doesn't look good, but I don't have the full update."

— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) October 5, 2025

Shrader was injured with 7:56 left in the second quarter on an extra point attempt, when he was run over during his post-kicking motion, and roughing the kicker was flagged on Las Vegas Raiders safety Tristin McCollum. S

hrader (right knee) was initially listed as ‘doubtful’ to return before being ruled out entirely in remaining regulation.

In his absence, the Colts elected to go for 2 point conversions (1 for 4) thereafter following their touchdowns, instead of having PAT attempts with presumed backup kicker, current punter Rigoberto Sanchez.

The NFL’s reigning AFC Player of the Month, Shrader, was 2 for 2 in extra point attempts in this one, but it looks as though he’s likely to miss some time here—with the question being how much exactly.

After surprisingly cutting ties with veteran Matt Gay earlier this past offseason, the Colts re-signed Shrader, the 2nd-year kicker, who won out the training camp competition with undrafted rookie Maddux Trujillo.

So far this season, he is 13 for 14 (92.9%) on field goal attempts (including a long successful kick of 52-yards and a game-winning 45-yard kick against Denver in Week 2) and a perfect 14 for 14 in extra point attempts

Veteran free agent kickers include former Colt Michael Badgley, Dustin Hopkins, and Zane Gonzalez among other options. It sounds as though Indianapolis will likely be bringing in some interim replacements for tryouts.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...injury-update-on-place-kicker-spencer-shrader

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: WR Pittman Limited Today

The Indianapolis Colts today released their Thursday injury report for Week 5 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

thursday's practice report for #LVvsIND. pic.twitter.com/znZ7sOTgQE

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 2, 2025

Wide receiver Michael Pittman was limited at practice today due to a hamstring injury. Pittman was not on the injury report yesterday, so it would appear he sustained the injury during practice today. Pittman will need to be able to practice tomorrow in some capacity to be available for Sunday. He is definitely one to keep an eye on tomorrow.

Wide receiver Alec Pierce was a full participant at practice again today. Pierce appears to be ready to pass through the concussion protocol after managing two back-to-back full practices this week. He will have one final check to complete before Sunday to confirm he can play.

Both linebacker Zaire Franklin and right guard Matt Goncalves were full participants today after being limited yesterday. Franklin, who is dealing with an ankle injury, and Goncalves, who is working his way back from a toe injury, have increased their chances of being able to play this Sunday with today’s practice.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice today with an Achilles injury. Moore is likely to be ruled out of this week’s game after tomorrow’s practice. Mike Hilton will likely get a call-up from the practice squad in Moore’s place.

Defensive end Tyquan Lewis was limited in practice today with an oblique injury. Lewis was not on the injury report yesterday, so it appears the injury occurred in practice today. Lewis is a key part of the defensive line rotation and would be a huge absence for a strong defense.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-colts-injury-report-wr-pittman-limited-today

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts-Cardinals opening odds: Bye Bye Birdie

The Indianapolis Colts don’t meet the Arizona Cardinals often but the last time they did, it was a memorable game with the Colts winning a thriller on Christmas night. The Colts are looking to make some more positive memories at the expense of the Cardinals as they host them in week six from Lucas Oil. The Colts are coming off an incredibly strong performance and would love to add another win to their early season total. FanDuel Sportsbook is giving the Colts the nod with a 5.5-point advantage in the spread.

The over/under sits at 46.5 while the money line comes in at -240.

What can you say about the Colts demolishing the Las Vegas Raiders? Almost everything went perfectly scoring six straight touchdowns and downing them 40-6. Both sides of the ball dominated and kept this one from getting too interesting for too long. Spencer Shrader’s injury and the inability to convert two point conversions at a solid clip were the only two blemishes. Outside of that, the offense continued to look dominate, and it was a perfect bounce back for the defense.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals got the gift that keeps on giving in the form of the Tennessee Titans, yet they somehow fumbled the bag. Kyler Murray had his team out in front 21-6 through three quarters, but then it became the “Cam Ward” game. Yes, he was intercepted towards the end which resulted in a bizarre interception/fumble sequence, but he lead them close enough to recover in the endzone and scored a touchdown on the previous drive. All of that set the Titans up to kick the game winning field goal. It was a major collapse for the Cardinals against a winless team. They will be looking to get out quickly to put this one behind them.

While certainly not considered juggernauts, the Cardinals will be one of the tougher tests the Colts have faced this season. It would be another step towards validating Daniel Jones and this team as a whole. It would also continue to keep the hype train running on this unexpected season by moving them to 5-1 through the first six. Containing Kyler Murray won’t be easy, but if done, expect the Colts to cover and get the win.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115806/colts-cardinals-opening-odds-bye-bye-birdie

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

This is ‘The Colture’ that Colts GM Chris Ballard has Envisioned

Indianapolis, IN — For years, Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard preached patience without following through with a worthwhile product. From the uncertainty that was the quarterback carousel post-Luck to the uninspiring free agent cycles of yesteryear were just two of this regime’s biggest shortcomings thus far, with many more deficiencies scattered throughout. Through five weeks in the 2025-26 season, however, Colts fans and media members alike are singing a much different tune.

Chris Ballard has also preached continuity during this timeframe, though until now it seemed like wishful thinking more than anything. After consecutive offseasons of ‘running it back’ to no avail, this front office recognized its shortcomings up to that point, and in response, deviated from the norm in the biggest way yet. It’s important to acknowledge that it’s still early in the season, but that hesitancy is quickly turning into conviction. This Colts team is different, and it’s not solely in the way the roster was constructed.

Before Shane Steichen became the team’s head coach, and even a couple of times during his tenure thus far, the Colts have shown a tendency to get comfortable with a lead and either choke it away entirely or merely give the opposition a chance it should’ve never had. Conversely, when this team used to appear down and out, once momentum was established on the other side of the field, poise typically fell apart. Nowadays, the Colts are remaining confidently feisty, while also playing their most complementary football of the Ballard era.

As alluded to, the Colts aren’t just maintaining their leads; they’re putting their foot on the opposition’s neck as they do their worst to put them down for good. Against the Miami Dolphins in the season-opener, Indy walked into halftime with a 20-0 lead, and still came out in the second half swinging as they put up 13 more points. Similarly, two weeks later, the Colts traveled South to take on the Tennessee Titans and put up 21 points in the second half after entering halftime with a strong 20-6 lead. Finally, against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, a 40-6 rout. The total beatdown from start to finish all but solidifies that, at the absolute worst, this Colts team will be an impressively hard out.

Turning that comfort of a lead into a kill shot is not all that showcases this to be the team that Chris Ballard always envisioned, but that, coupled with everything laid before it, does. The complementary play, the absence of ego, and selfless togetherness that’s been on full display through five weeks is precisely what Ballard and Co. had been building towards. It’s now a culture — or Colture, if you will — that seems sustainable.

Arguably, the biggest change in what’s allowed the front office’s previous wrongs to be righted so quickly has been the newfound philosophy from the new-look Colts’ ownership. Many doubters and/or misogynistic detractors deemed the Irsay daughters’ reign to be strictly nepotism-related, though this succession plan has long been in place and is already paying dividends. Not only did Ballard and Co.‘s recent uncharacteristic spending in free agency come during their first offseason as owners, but CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon and her sisters vowed to prioritize winning and promised to uphold a new version of accountability, and so far, they’ve done just that.

“I know it could be misunderstood to say, I don’t like talking just about winning. I like talking about being the best,” Irsay-Gordon said during her and her sisters’ opening press conference as new owners of the Indianapolis Colts. “… I feel like to say ‘win’ is just more outcome-oriented, right? It’s more outcome-oriented, more short-term. To me, it’s about being the best.”

The recent big fish free-agent acquisitions of defensive backs Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum, as well as what’s become one in quarterback Daniel Jones, are undeniably what have allowed this team to blossom into a top-tier operation. The resurgence of Jones, thanks to the marriage between him and Shane Steichen, is inarguably what’s gotten the ball rolling, but outside of those three additions lies a roster chock-full of Chris Ballard bets.

It’s been resurfaced ad nauseam — the abrupt retirement of Andrew Luck — to showcase what type of rebound Ballard and Co. had their hands full of, and although that fact is constantly faced with eye-roll reactions as if that bears no weight in the outlook of a franchise, it’s easy to see now. Perhaps the Colts were always a steady-handed quarterback away, or maybe that, in tandem with much-needed self-reflection from a managerial standpoint, is what has resulted in such a drastic turnaround in not only success, but demeanor. What is undeniable is that this Colts team is firing on all cylinders in all three phases, and while the players and coaching staff deserve their credit in righting the ship, so does this refreshed front office, as well as the new ownership from Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Kalen Jackson, and Casey Foyt.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...re-that-colts-gm-chris-ballard-has-envisioned

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Week 5 QB Analysis: I think I believe

Thanks to the nflFastR project, Pro Football Focus and NFL NextGen Stats for the timely sources of data.

For those of you new to this, I will publish key QB stats each week judging how well the Colts’ QB performed. Yes, O-Line, receivers, and play-calling impact these numbers but they are primarily QB measures. I will probably modify the charts throughout the season. Commentary will be brief but feel free to let me know in the comments that stats aren’t everything. (click charts for larger view)

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HOW WELL?​

In week 5, Daniel Jones avoided turnovers and sacks and put up another highly efficient game, ranking 6th in both EPA efficiency and QB Success Rate. His positive plays were highly productive, while his negative plays minimized damage.

His weekly numbers show that he has been very consistent so far, with only the LA game falling short of top-tier performance. What he has done so far in Indy is nothing short of remarkable.

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HOW FAR?​

There’s really nothing to pick apart here. He completed plenty of passes, moved the chains consistently, and added a couple of touchdowns. He stayed under 20 air yards for most of the game, but that’s not a negative. Deep passes are exciting, but consistent completions are what get you to the end zone.

Jones still has an above average depth of target and depth of completion.

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TO WHO?​

He continues to distribute the ball effectively. Downs led the team in targets, but Dulin ultimately edged him out in total yards.

For the season, Warren still leads in yards and Pittman leads in targets and I am OK with that.

The shorter throws earned less EPA, which is common.

All receivers except for Mitchell are providing outstanding value per target.

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HOW ACCURATE?​

Jones’ completion rate was high, but with the shorter throws, that was expected. His CPOE dipped below average for the first time this year, but that isn’t a concern at this point. His ability to complete passes with the Colts is far ahead of where he was with the Giants.

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HOW FAST?​

He was very quick with his throws this week, and after adjusting for passing depth, he’s getting rid of the ball faster than almost every QB in the league. My number one complaint about the new breed of running QBs is that they hold onto the ball too long—inviting pressure and abandoning the pass to scramble, which is usually a bad trade-off. Jones doesn’t do that.

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TO WHERE?​

He mostly stayed within 20 yards, and it worked out well. The right side of the field wasn’t working for him this week, so it’s good that he steered away from it.

Notice the lack of red in the following graph—Jones has been effective all over the field.

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DASHBOARD​

mouseover definitions: epa/d, median EPA gain in similar game situation (down, distance, etc.)”>arsr, 3 yards to gain in game-neutral situations”>edp, opd, pr%, tip, ttt, adot, ay/c, yac, yacoe, yd/c, ac%, cpoe, aypa, scr%, ta%, sck%, aa%, aay, ny/d, ny/p, 1st%, td%, to%, 0″>qbsr epa/p, adj/p

• Despite the run game performing at a high level, the Colts stuck with a pass-first offense (2nd asr, 5th edp)
• Jones was not pressured much, mostly because he got rid of the ball so quickly (22ndpr%, 26th ttt)
• His passing depth was about average, but his completions were much deeper than average. That usually implies a trade-off in YAC, but even so, the Colts’ receivers gave him very little after the catch (17th adot, 8th ay/c, 31st yac, 22nd yacoe)
• His 73.3% adjusted completion rate (drops and throw-aways removed) was only slightly above average, resulting in a less-than-impressive yards per attempt (14th ac%, 17th aypa).
• He didn’t scramble, instead relying on throw-aways to handle pressure, resulting in no sacks and a continued low abandonment rate (29th scr%, 10th ta%, 20th sck%, 28th aa%)
• That boosted his net yards per play, but it was still only about league average. (15th ny/d, 15th ny/p)
• Where he excelled was in the value plays that aren’t measured in yards. He threw for a lot of first downs, added a couple of touchdowns, and didn’t turn the ball over (7th 1st%, 9th TD%, 24th TO%). That dramatically lifted his “just average” overall yardage efficiency to the 6th-best EPA efficiency of the week.

mouseover definitions: ay<, dp%, ay/c, yac, yd/c, ac%, aypa, drp%, aypa, ta%, ypa, sck%, ny/a, scr%, ny/d, car%, ny/p, 1st%, any/p, td%, any/p, to%, any/p, epa/p, opd, adj/p

His efficeicny curve shows no real weaknesses. He is highly efficient and even after adjusting for opponent he is a top 5 QB.

In 2019, the Colts jumped out to a 5-2 start under Jacoby Brissett, but that was really a mirage. Brissett played well, but there were clear red flags in his numbers that signaled it couldn’t last. I see no such weaknesses in Jones’ play so far—he’s light years ahead of what Brissett delivered then. I hate the term “elite,” but if people are going to use it, they should be applying it to Jones’ first 5 weeks as a Colt

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nfl-an...02/colts-week-5-qb-analysis-i-think-i-believe