News Colts Team Notes

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts activate former starting CB off IR for depleted secondary ahead of Steelers game

On Saturday, the Indianapolis Colts announced that they have activated cornerback Jaylon Jones off injured reserve and signed fellow cornerback Cameron Mitchell from the practice squad to the 53-man active roster.

The Colts also announced that they elevated defensive end Durell Nchami and wide receiver Laquon Treadwell from the practice squad to the active roster.

Indianapolis also waived linebacker Chad Muma and safety Trey Washington in corresponding roster moves.

Regarding Jones, he should be a welcome addition to the Colts secondary at outside cornerback—even if he finds himself on an initial pitch count against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Originally a 2023 7th round pick of the Colts, the 6’2”, 203 pound Jones has blossomed into a solid starting outside cornerback, who’s made 27 career starts in his first two seasons. Jones appeared in 1 game this season before re-aggravating his hamstring injury which limited him throughout this past training camp and preseason.

During all 17 starts for the Colts last season, Jones recorded 100 tackles (66 solo), 12 passes defensed, 2 interceptions, and a forced fumble. Per PFF, he earned a +67.4 overall grade.

Otherwise, Mitchell has appeared in 3 games for the Colts this season, recording 3 tackles.

Lastly, Nchami appeared in last weekend’s home blowout against the Tennessee Titans, recording 2 tackles (1 solo), while veteran wideout Laquon Treadwell appeared in 1 game during Week 7 against the Los Angeles Chargers previously. The former Minnesota Vikings first round pick has appeared in 3 games during two seasons in Indy.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...r-depleted-secondary-ahead-of-pittsburgh-game

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey Results: Week 9 at Pittsburgh Steelers

The Indianapolis Colts (7-1) are one of the hottest teams in all of football, sitting atop the entire AFC.

However, they’ll face arguably one of their toughest tasks yet when they travel to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) this weekend.

The Steelers are by no means a great team these days, but the Indianapolis Colts as a franchise are 1-13 all-time at Pittsburgh during the regular season. The Colts sole and last win at Pittsburgh was on November 9, 2008, when Indianapolis narrowly won 24-20.

Right now, 97% of Colts fans believe that the franchise is headed in the right direction, which is pretty remarkable given that such a percentage sat at 44% to begin this year’s surprising regular season:

A big reason why has been the monstrous rushing campaign of star workhorse Jonathan Taylor, who currently leads the league in carries (143), rushing yards (850), and a whopping 12 rushing touchdowns, as the NFL’s ‘Triple Crown rushing king.’

91% 0f Colts fans believe that Taylor, who’s on pace to be an NFL First-Team All-Pro again for the second time in his Hall of Fame career, will be this year’s NFL Offensive Player of the Year:

It would be a nice story for Taylor, who missed out on NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors back in 2021 because of the prolific receiving season of then Los Angeles Rams wideout Cooper Kupp.

However, Colts fans are less optimistic that Taylor will ultimately win NFL MVP honors (only at 34%), which is typically reserved for elite league quarterbacks in more modern seasons historically:

However, the fact that Taylor is even a legitimate MVP candidate these days speaks to his dominant season.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...-survey-results-week-9-at-pittsburgh-steelers

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Week 9 Colts vs. Steelers Game Thread

The Indianapolis Colts are on the road to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in week 0 of the 2025 season, kickoff is at 1:00 p.m. EST.

Once again the 2025 Indianapolis Colts won last weekends game by multiple scores. The final score was Colts 38, Titans 14. But the final score doesn’t tell the whole story, it never does. What might seem obvious: the Tennessee Titans are seemingly, desperately vying for the number one overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. In the salary cap era this has only been accomplished four times, the Cincinnati Bengals (‘94-’95), the Browns (‘99-’00), the Browns again (‘17-’18) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (‘21-’22). Right now the Titans are battling with the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets for the honor of being so bad at football that they get to overdraft a quarterback they will jettison off their roster in four years time.

What about the unobvious? It’s hard to poke holes in a three score victory (assuming all three 2-point attempts were successful) but the fact of the matter is the league’s best offense came out flat. On the other side of the ball Cam Ward and his ragtag band of misfits couldn’t capitalize on the gift they had been given. Eventually Daniel Indiana Jones righted the ship and the offense got their act together, but for a team who seemingly starts every game red hot, this was a departure.

The Colts won’t be able to rely on poor quarterback play from their opponent. Aaron Rodgers isn’t what he once was, and being just a few years behind the future hall of famer, I get it. That said, what Rodgers is doing this year, after the disaster that was 2024, is nothing short of incredible. He isn’t a special player anymore but mentally, he’s all there. My concern this week is that there may not be a quarterback left on the Colts schedule that could make the Indy defense pay for their mistakes quite like Rodgers can this weekend.

Defensively, I don’t believe the Steelers have the juice to slow down the Indy offense, but I don’t believe anyone does. If someone were to say that the 2025 Indianapolis Colts had the best gridiron football offense in the known universe, I wouldn’t disagree. This Steelers defense is old and injured, it’s just not good. With that said if the Indy offense comes out flat like they did a week ago, this defense has the experience to capitalize and Aaron Rodgers still has the ability to make them pay.

I haven’t felt this apprehensive for a Colts game since week one, but that was before Daniel Jones became “Indiana”.

Prediction:

Steelers: 31

Colts: 34

As always, go Colts.

---

RELATED

Week 9 Where to Watch

5 Questions with Behind the Steel Curtain

Week 8 Defensive Analysis

Week 8 Offensive Analysis

---

This is your week nine open thread so hang out here, chat, celebrate, commiserate, and argue in the comments! Go wild (within reason)!

Go Colts!

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/gameth...hane-steichen-tanor-bortolini-jonathan-taylor

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts-Falcons opening odds: Germany awaits

The Indianapolis Colts next matchup is a home contest against the Atlanta Falcons. While billed as a home game, the Colts will be far from home as they head to Germany. This is the first contest in Olympiastadion Berlin. This stadium was built in 1936 for the Olympics and will serve host to these two teams who are both coming off tough losses. FanDuel Sportsbook sees the Colts as solid favorites giving them a 6.5-point advantage in the spread.

The money line starts at -290 with the over/under at 48.5.

It was a tough one in Pittsburgh that the Colts would love to have back. After jumping out to an early 7-0 lead and scoring on their first possession, things turned all Pittsburgh’s way. A muffed punt spelled early trouble, but the Colts defense avoided giving up points. The good fortune stopped there as Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor turned in their worst performances of the season. 45-yards from Taylor and four turnovers from Jones was the ultimate disaster.

The Falcons are a total enigma this season after convincingly beating the Bills yet losing to the Dolphins. This week saw them against the division leading New England Patriots. The Patriots jumped in front and maintained control for most of the game, although Michael Penix Jr. helped make things interesting late with a three touchdown performance. The Falcons left unhappy with the loss and went as far as calling foul on the Patriots stating they simulated the snap call on a key fourth down play by clapping.

Both teams will make the long trip less than happy with themselves as they head to Germany for a pivotal matchup. The Colts will look to get back on track to maintain league superiority. The Falcons are looking to remain relevant in a crowded NFC that finds them slipping away. The stage in Berlin will be set for an early morning matchup as the Colts are seeking to head into the bye with a win.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...198/colts-falcons-opening-odds-germany-awaits

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Monday Morning Awards: Week 9 @Steelers

7-2 after an ugly loss, where the offense had their worst performance by far this season, and even though the defense did their job in the end there is just no way to overcome SIX turnovers. Colts need to flip the page fast and get ready for their game against the Falcons in Europe before the bye week.

---

MVP of the Game: Laiatu Latu​

Latu has quietly emerged as that best defensive player of his draft class, and showing all the traits that made him a first rounder. He finished the game with a career high 2.5 sacks, already getting to five on the year, but most important he was able to consistently shed blocks, generate pressure, and be a presence on the backfield. His breakout as an elite defensive player has been one of the biggest reasons for the Colts’ improvement this year, and so far has been the only edge rusher able to generate consistent pressure from the outside.

Dud of the Game (The Grigsy): Offensive line​

We know that they are much better than this, but yesterday was perhaps the worst offensive line game I have seen from this team in a lot of time. Herbig and Watt had their way against Smith and Raimann, while Goncalves was absolutely dominated by Cameron Heyward. No quarterback, or offense, can survive their offensive line getting dominated like that. What worries me the most is how bad the offensive tackles were in pass-blocking, with two games against the Texans (Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter) on the horizon. Taking into account the context of the game, the struggles are a bit more understandable. T.J. Watt always seems to have Braden Smith’s number, and yesterday was not the exception, Matt Goncalves’ dad passed away last week, which must have surely affected the talented guard’s preparation for the game, and Raimann was dealing with Nick Herbig, one of the best young pass-rushers in the NFL, on an island.

Best play of the game: First drive on offense and defense​

After a forced three and out, the Colts scored a touchdown on a 13-play drive where they systematically drove down the field. It all seemed to be going according to plan then, but unfortunately everything that came after that was just worse and worse.

Worst play of the game: Basically any offensive drive after the first touchdown​

Fumble-Interception-Punt-Punt-Interception-Field Goal-Fumble. Kudos to the defense because the game should not have been as close as it was with that amount of turnovers and offensive incompetence. It just cannot get any worse than that, and it will give all the Daniel Jones’ haters out there plenty of fuel this week to criticize. I am still firmly aboard his ship, and think that next week will be a good chance for him to show that this was just a bad game, as it can happen to anyone, and nothing more than that.

Best position group: Defense​

I am going to give this one to the defense as a whole, they played an amazing game. There is nothing they can do if the Steelers’ offense is constantly getting the ball at the halfway line or even worse. I also want to highlight Zaire Franklin and Germaine Pratt. Linebacker has been my biggest area of concern for the unit, but they both had a decent game, and they played with a palpable passion and drive to win, which I definitely appreciate.

Unsung hero: Michael Badgley​

Badgley made all four of his kicks, including two over 50 yards. Yeah sure, one was when the game was basically over, but it was still a welcome sight because after Shrader’s injury I was really worried about the kicker position.

Rookie of the Week: Vacant​

It was a disappointing game for tight end Tyler Warren, facing a defense that has struggled covering tight ends, he was kept in check recording just five catches for 26 yards. J.T. Tuimoloau is playing more, which is a welcome sight, but his impact on the game was not enough to get the award.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/117205/colts-monday-morning-awards-week-9-steelers

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts head coach Shane Steichen comments on Tuesday’s trade deadline

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen didn’t say a lot on it, but did briefly comment on Tuesday’s looming 4 PM EST league-wide trade deadline (via The Athletic’s James Boyd):

#Colts HC Shane Steichen on the trade deadline:

"We're working through that. Like I said, (GM Chris Ballard) and his staff are doing their due diligence on that stuff, and we'll see how it plays out."

— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) November 3, 2025

One could make the case that if there were ever a year for longtime Colts general manager Chris Ballard to make a trade deadline splash, this would arguably be it. Specifically, the Colts still sit at 7-2, while having one of the league’s best offenses, and are a legitimate Super Bowl contender—with the AFC surprisingly down atop.

That being said, for all of the things that Ballard has been labeled at during his ongoing 9-year tenure with the Colts, “prudent,” “cheap” etc., careless and/or reckless—particularly with his precious draft capital, hasn’t been it.

Ballard did show that he can finally adapt in free agency this past offseason though, after being entrenched on the hot seat, finally splurging on big free agency contracts for both starting safety Camryn Bynum and cornerback Charvarius Ward—which have clearly upgraded the Indy secondary, when both fully healthy.

Will that newfound mindset translate to the NFL’s imminent trade deadline?

Well, Ballard’s only prior move was rather minor, trading backup running back Nyheim Hines for Zack Moss and a 6th round pick right ahead of 2022’s league trade deadline.

These Colts could use some veteran reinforcements though, particularly at both starting linebacker (coverage) and a pass rushing defensive end. Cornerback is less pressing with the return of former starter Jaylon Jones (hamstring) and Ward’s (hopeful) return following Week 11’s BYE week, after suffering a second concussion during a freak pre-game accident back in Week 6.

The Cincinnati Bengals (3-6) trading reigning First-Team All-Pro pass rusher Trey Hendrickson along with starting linebacker Logan Wilson would obviously be music to Colts fans ears, but realistically, the price tag may be too lofty for Chris Ballard and Co.—as Cincy team owner Mike Brown’s current asking prices have reportedly been rather exorbitant, with no recent signs of reasonably coming down.

With the Miami Dolphins recently trading pass rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles for a 2026 third round pick, and in the middle of a contract year, and the already sizable trade price-tag for Hendrickson is likely at least a first rounder—maybe even more in a requested trade package.

However, to me, that’s the type of elite player that would drastically tip the scales in favor of the Colts defense and significantly improve their outside pass rush—especially given Hendrickson’s prior familiarity with Indy defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Wilson would be a nice piece too to upgrade their linebacking corps. Colts fans can dream, can’t we?

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-steichen-comments-on-tuesdays-trade-deadline

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Week 9 QB Analysis: Ooph

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)

---

It’s easy to write an analysis when everything’s going great. But when the wheels come off, you have to figure out why. And that “why” tends to divide fans into two groups: those who excuse a quarterback for a bad outing —and those who don’t. Consider me a “don’t” guy.

HOW WELL?​

For the “not-the-QB’s-fault” camp — outside of the five turnovers, he played okay. He posted a 49.2% success rate, which is a bit above the NFL average and ranked 15th for the week. However, in my clearly-not-so-humble-at-all opinion, quarterbacks are responsible for their turnovers and they are EPA killers. So, it’s no surprise that Jones’ -0.16 EPA per play ranked 29th this week.

Yes, pressure led to strip sacks, but maybe recognize the pressure and do something about it? And sure, the tipped-pass interceptions were flukes, but maybe throw over the free blitzer bearing down on you? And defintiely don’t throw the ball straight to a defender . . . twice.

My point is that plenty of quarterbacks have faced pressure in games this season — but, most of them didn’t turn the ball over five times. What’s the saying: “Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. Three times is bad bounces, I guess. Four times is, ummm, playing on grass(?). But five times? Maybe, that’s on you.”

It wasn’t just EPA that tanked this week — yards per play dipped down as well. Still, Jones managed the 16th-ranked pass play conversion rate, so he was able to somewhat move the chains until turnovers ended the drives.

---

HOW FAR?​

His completion rate (adjusted to include pass interference) dropped below 65% for the first time this year. That’s still not terrible… as long as it’s your teammate making the catch. His 7.1 yards per attempt is below average, but not significantly so. Other than the picks, those are all kind of “okay” numbers.

He maintained an above average depth of target and depth of completions.

---

TO WHO?​

For the 2nd week in a row, Pittman and Pierce had big days, nearly matching each other in total receiving depth as both went over 100 yards. Warren had an off day with 5 catches for 26 yards.

Pittman has taken the lead over Warren in total yards, with both still vying for 1,000-yard seasons.

The per target value was basically below average for everyone this week. Part of that is fewer completions, but also just lower value throws.

This game didn’t dent the next graph much, as Colts receivers still average strong value per target.

---

HOW ACCURATE?​

Accuracy took a nosedive this week, as Jones posted a below-average CPOE for only the second time this year. His completion rate also fell below league average for the first time as a Colt.

---

HOW FAST?​

Time to throw dropped significantly and that was in reaction to the pass rush and not play design.

---

TO WHERE?​

Wow, that’s a lot of landmines. The 10–20 yard range was the sweet spot for Jones — and even then, it wasn’t all that sweet.

The season heat map still looks good though.

---

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

So here’s the lowdown:

• Despite Jonathan Taylor being contained, the ground game was still fairly efficient, racking up first downs and a Daniel Jones TD— but game script forced the Colts to lean heavily on the pass (9th ARSR, 2nd EDP).
• Contrary to conventional wisdom, Jones didn’t face higher-than-average pressure overall. Now, before you call me an idiot and say this is why no one should pay attention to numbers — I’m not saying he wasn’t hurried. He was pressured enough to take five sacks, but for the most part, he was getting the ball out quickly to avoid it (21st PR%, 12th SCK%, 23rd TTT). Had he taken his usual time to throw, that pressure rate would’ve been much higher — so clearly, the O-line wasn’t playing as well as it normally does, and Jones didn’t have the time in the pocket he’s used to.
• Still, he pushed the ball downfield, but his completion rate dipped and receivers didn’t add much after the catch — resulting in a below-average yards-per-attempt (5th AY/C, 20th AC%, 19th AYPA).
• Outside of the sacks, he didn’t scramble or throw the ball away leading to a low abandoned rate (25th SCR%, 23rd TA%, 22nd AA%). So, he was still trying to make pass attempts, even though he had little time to do so.
• Still, despite all of that, his 5.9 net yards per play ended up around the 40th percentile. Obviously not good, but also not terrible.
• A decent conversion rate kept the ball moving, but the turnovers killed too many drives before they could reach the end zone (16th 1st%, 1st TO%, 21st TD%).

Those turnovers are really the sole reason why his success looked okay, yet his value per play was abysmal (15th QBSR, 29th EPA/p). It’s even more clear when looking at his efficeincy curve for 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

You can see that passing depth wasn’t the issue, but there was a steep drop due to limited YAC (5th in air yards per completion to 17th in total yards per completion) and another decline from incompletions (17th YD/C to 22nd adjusted yards per attempt). After that, his efficiency held fairly steady until adding the impact of first downs lifted him to 16th in adjusted net yards per play — which shows that, before accounting for turnovers, he was playing okay. But those five turnovers caused a precipitous drop to 29th in EPA per play.

For those who don’t want to blame Jones, it’s fair to say he didn’t have enough time to run the offense the way he wanted — and the ball definitely didn’t bounce our way a few times. I 100% agree with that, buuuuuut… it’s not like he was playing lights-out and a few fluky plays derailed what would’ve been a great day. When good quarterbacks face pressure and bad luck, they minimize mistakes and make things happen. Jones did not.

Does this mean that, going forward, our offense is doomed unless the O-line plays at a top-10 level? No. As a Colt, Jones has been very good under pressure prior to this game, so this might just be a one-of-those-days situation. But it still doesn’t absolve him of blame. Along with plenty of other players, he had a bad day.

Does this game change my opinion of him? Not really. Turnovers are fluky and a poor predictor of future ones. If they regress to the mean — which is almost a certainty — Jones should be fine. Maybe he won’t continue to be a top-five efficiency QB, but this offense doesn’t need him to.

For now, I still have him ranked as the 4th most efficient QB on the year.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nfl-analysis-play-breakdowns/117223/colts-week-9-qb-analysis-ooph

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

New prized Colts CB Sauce Gardner’s salary cap hits come in

According to Spotrac, new Indianapolis Colts 2x NFL First-Team All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner’s salary cap hits have come in both for the remainder of the 2025 campaign and beyond:

The #Colts get CB Sauce Gardner at cap hits of:

2025: $625k
2026: $9.5M
2027: $20.9M
2028: $26.2M
2029: $36.1M
2030: $36.1M

It's a 5 1/2 year, $131.5M contract going forward, with $70M effectively guaranteed through 2028.

— Spotrac (@spotrac) November 4, 2025

It’s worth noting that the former 4th overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft signed a 4-year, $120.4 million contract extension this past offseason before New York shockingly sent him to Indianapolis ahead of Tuesday afternoon’s blockbuster of a trade deadline.

However, as Spotrac notes, the Jets’ unique structuring of Gardner’s recent mega-contract extension allowed for Tuesday’s trade deadline deal, which sent shockwaves throughout league circles and the national media alike:

Why was Sauce Gardner "tradeable" today?

The Jets structured his offseason extension with a minimal signing bonus ($13.75M), backed up by future option bonuses in 2026/2027.

Those options now transfer to the Colts, leaving behind just $19.75M of dead cap for the Jets to handle…

— Spotrac (@spotrac) November 4, 2025

For the Colts, the ramifications of this move mean a few things going forward both from a potential salary cap standpoint and likely who will continue to be overseeing the overall management of it atop:

1. After the team’s hot start at 7-2, Colts general manager Chris Ballard is likely here to stay for at least the next few years. Team owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon and her sisters weren’t going to let him mortgage the franchise’s future by dealing the team’s 2026 and 2027 first round picks, along with young wideout AD Mitchell, if the longtime football exec wasn’t going to be around to help oversee it.
2. The Colts likely are convinced that new veteran starter Daniel Jones is the answer for at least the new few seasons—and that a lucrative, multi-year extension is looming from Indianapolis. On the other hand, Indianapolis may also look to deal since demoted (and currently injured) 3rd-year quarterback Anthony Richardson to both recoup some lost draft capital and/or free up some of his 2026 cap hit at $10.8M—and provide him a fresh start for playing time and to compete for a job elsewhere.
3. After dealing young wideout AD Mitchell, the Colts currently lack an internal replacement option should pending 2026 free agent wide receiver Alec Pierce depart this next offseason. As one of the league’s premier deep threats, Pierce shouldn’t lack his fair share of contending suitors—particularly from the likes of the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens, should Indianapolis allow him to actually hit the open market.

It’s worth noting that with Gardner only hitting the salary cap at $9.5M next year, that him and veteran corner Charvarius Ward are combining for just around $29.6 million, which is much smaller than Gardner’s potential salary cap number previously thrown out by SI.com’s Albert Breer—and conversely, much more manageable as it relates to allocating salary cap resources to a singular defensive position.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...lts-cb-sauce-gardners-salary-cap-hits-come-in

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: New CB Sauce Gardner A Full Participant

The Indianapolis Colts today released there Wednesday injury report for Week 10 of the NFL season against the Atalanta Falcons in Germany on Sunday.

wednesday's practice report for #ATLvsIND. pic.twitter.com/nTPK9uvvtt

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) November 5, 2025

Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner missed practice today with a neck injury. Buckner exited the game last Sunday against the Steelers but did manage to return although it was briefly. Buckner is never one to miss games so it’s unlikely he doesn’t suit up Sunday but he is one to keep a close eye on the rest of the week.

Defensive end Samson Ebukam miss practice today with a knee injury. Ebukam has missed several weeks now either the knee injury and looks like he could miss another week too.

Cornerback Sauce Gardner was a full participant today at practice. The team traded for him from the New York Hets and despite being in the concussion protocol he was able to practice fully today. He looks like he could be in line to make his Colts debut this Sunday.

Guard Matt Goncalves missed practice today with a personal designation. He missed practice recently due to the passing of his father so it maybe be related to today’s absence.

Defensive end Tyquan Lewis missed practice today due to a groin injury. Lewis has been dealing with a groin injury the last couple weeks and it has caused him to miss a couple games. Lewis is a key part of the Colts defensive line rotation and they need him back as soon as possible but it isn’t looking likely at the moment.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice today with an Achilles injury. It appears the team is giving Moore some maintenance days to help with the Achilles injury that kept him out for multiple weeks earlier in the season. He has managed to play through it recently.

Wide receiver Michael Pittman missed practice today with a glute injury. Pittman has been one of the toughest wide receivers in the league for multiple years in the hits he had taken and injuries he had through.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...eport-new-cb-sauce-gardner-a-full-participant

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Forget about the cost because Ballard made the Indianapolis Colts a lot better

What has gotten into Chris Ballard? Did he have an epiphany or…? The GM for the Indianapolis Colts doesn’t make mid-season trades. Ballard doesn’t give up two first round picks for anyone. Heck, he doesn’t make many moves at all. Ballard moves around the game board in a systematic way and almost never deviates. Getting Sauce Gardner from the Jets was a big boy move. It was so big it might even get the Colts to the Super Bowl.

Fans begged Ballard to do something at the trade deadline. We witnessed him finally pull the trigger in free agency and when healthy, his main prizes in the secondary look good. Now, he addressed a weakness on the defense by shoring up the backfield with a lockdown corner. Everyone else has covered the statistics, so let’s cover the feel because this one feels good. Was it a lot to give up? Sure. Two first rounders is steep along with Adonai Mitchell, but can you be sure either first rounder would pan out? Do most at the level of Gardner? The Colts know what they are getting in Gardner. He has real life NFL experience and has been top-notch. Getting high level production out of two first rounders is no guarantee.

Some fans complain about the contract and what that means for the future. Forget the future for a minute and focus on the here and now. Championship windows are short, but one just opened. The AFC is wide open and the Colts are breaking down the door. A 7-2 team just got better. It is a fact that some players will have to be let go. Finances become tight with big moves like this. Ok, but what is the alternative? Never go for it? I would rather see a team roll the dice and risk it all for a legitimate shot at a championship than never take the plunge. Look no further than the Pacers who traded for Pascal Siakam. They got within one half of winning a title. The Colts are capturing lightning in a bottle, and I’m here for it.

Too expensive. Too restrictive on the future. Chris Ballard needed to do more. Some fans will never be satisfied. I am not team Ballard, but this is the type of aggressiveness most have wanted for years. This is as close as the Colts have come to contention in a long time. The window has been opened. Ballard is taking full advantage now because it won’t be open forever.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...lard-made-the-indianapolis-colts-a-lot-better

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Injury Report: DT Deforest Buckner already ruled out; New star CB cleared

The Indianapolis Colts released their Thursday injury report today ahead of Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons in Germany on Sunday.

thursday’s practice report for #ATLvsIND. pic.twitter.com/32XgRcFe7s

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) November 6, 2025

Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner missed practice today for the second day today. With the team set to travel to Germany today Buckner was subsequently ruled OUT and left out of the traveling squad. With Buckner out, he leaves behind a huge void to fill. Expect Adetomiwa Adebawore to have an increased role in pass rushing situations and also Neville Gallimore in run-stopping too.

Defensive end Samson Ebukam continues to miss practice with an ongoing knee injury. Expect him to be ruled out of another game this week. Defensive end Tyquan Lewis also missed another practice today with a groin injury and looks to be joining Ebukam in missing another game too. The Colts defensive line is looking very thin as injury begin to pile up.

Guard Matt Goncalves (personal), cornerback Kenny Moore (Achilles) and wide receiver Michael Pittman (glute) were all full participants today after missing practice yesterday. All three look in line to be available Sunday in Germany.

New star cornerback Sauce Gardner was a full participant today at practice after being in the concussion protocol previously as a member of the New York Jets. It was announced today that he had passed through the protocol and is therefore in line to make his Colts debut this Sunday overseas against the Falcons. It would appear that he and Jaylon Jones will man the starting outside corner spots for Indianapolis.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...buckner-already-ruled-out-new-star-cb-cleared

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

How Colts’ Carlie Irsay-Gordon played key role in closing deal for star corner Sauce Gardner

According to SI.com’s Albert Breer, Indianapolis Colts team owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon played a key role in adding input to close the deal for newly acquired star cornerback Sauce Gardner:

“. . . Three weeks later, on Monday, with the sides close to a deal and the trade deadline looming, Ballard was talking with Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon about the potential trade as the GM prepared to make an offer, and she asked, ‘Do you want to Band-Aid it or fix it for the long term?’

Ballard fixed it. Sauce Gardner would be a Colt.”

Of course, the Colts ultimately made national headlines, acquiring the former New York Jets’ 2x NFL First-Team All-Pro cornerback for their 2026, 2027 first round picks, as well as wideout AD Mitchell.

Per ESPN NFL analyst Pete Schrager, many of those in league circles didn’t even know that Gardner was realistically available:

“I will tell you, Sauce had no idea he was being traded,” Schrager said via Clutchpoints.com. “Other teams around the league were texting me like, ‘Did you know he was up for sale?’ I’m like, ‘He wasn’t up for sale unless you offer two picks and a wide receiver that they could use on their team today.’”

By Breer’s account, the Colts didn’t know initially either, until new New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey indicated to Indianapolis assistant general manager Ed Dodds that anyone was available on their defense, and while they weren’t looking to necessarily deal Gardner, even their young All-Pro cornerback.

With Irsay-Gordon’s nudge, the Colts looked to fill the position not just with key cornerback competition or a potential stopgap, but with one of the best young cornerbacks in the league—albeit at a steep price.

Irsay-Gordon providing last minute words of wisdom ahead of a franchise-altering trade is not all that different from when her father, late team owner Jim Irsay, in the draft war room, urged Ballard and his football ops team to trade up and select star Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor with the 41st overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Colts’ top brass had all been consistently discussing Taylor and remained enthralled with him as a top running back prospect throughout that year’s pre-draft evaluation process.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ayed-key-role-in-closing-deal-for-star-corner

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

The OTHER MVP Cases (Besides Jonathan Taylor)

Dear Stampede Blue Reader,

As you might have noticed both on our dear SB Nation site and elsewhere on the internet, the conversation around Jonathan Taylor has changed dramatically as of late. From becoming the Offensive Player of the Year favorite a few weeks ago, to now being discussed as a legitimate MVP Candidate (if not favorite for a lot of analysts) after yet another 3 Touchdown game ignited MVP chants in Lucas Oil Stadium 2 weeks ago, despite Taylor being *gasp* not a Quarterback.

Insert Jonathan Taylor into the MVP conversation.

I said it.

pic.twitter.com/Bt7unryjsk

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 26, 2025

The Colts Running Back is chasing history with his production, and in the process trying to end the 12 year streak of QBs winning the NFL’s most prestigious individual award. Many great RB seasons have tried in those 12 years to dethrone the QBs’ reign, with only 2017 Todd Gurley and 2016 Ezekiel Elliott able to get more than 2 votes (Gurley with 8, Elliott with 6) in the 50 member voting panel from the Associated Press.

But with Taylor potentially being the biggest threat to LaDainian Tomlinson’s Single-Season 31 Rushing and Receiving Touchdowns record with 14 TDs through 9 games (a 26 TD pace through 17 games), his 2025 campaign might dwarf all other RBs’ since Tomlinson’s dominant 2006 year.

Still the precedent is what the precedent is. Despite Taylor’s incredible season thus far, he is not the betting favorite of MVP candidates. Per VegasInsider, which uses the combined odds of 5 leading sportsbooks, Jonathan Taylor has the 11th best odds to win MVP behind 10 Quarterbacks! Taylor’s odds stand between +2500 to +3500 to win it, but 4 QBs have odds better that +600 to win MVP. So let’s play devil’s advocate. What is the case for each of the top QBs in the NFL? Do they have a strong enough season to fend off the pesky Colts back nipping at their heels?

Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills​

The new favorite for the MVP award, Josh Allen surpassed Patrick Mahomes (more on him later) according to oddsmakers after a Week 9 victory over his AFC foe. Allen is no stranger to the award, netting a 1st place MVP vote in 4 of the last 5 seasons and finally winning it last year. If he wins again in 2025, Josh Allen would become the 12th multi-time MVP in NFL history, a feat shared exclusively by NFL Hall of Famers among eligible retired players. Allen would be tied with Mahomes and Lamar Jackson for 2nd most MVPs among active players behind only Aaron Rodgers. A 2nd straight MVP isn’t just about recognition for Allen, it’s about legacy.

Allen’s stats in 2025 and his end of season pace are among the best in the NFL.

• 157/223 (70.4% Comp%) Passing | 334/474 Passing Pace
• 1,833 Passing Yards | 3,895 Passing Yard Pace
• 13 Passing TDs | 28 Passing TD Pace
• 4 INTs | 8-9 INT Pace
• 107 Passer Rating | 106.82-107.7 Passer Rating Pace
• 55 Carries | 117 Carry Pace
• 280 Rushing Yards | 595 Rushing Yard Pace
• 7 Rushing TDs | 15 Rushing TD Pace
• 4 Fumbles | 8-9 Fumble Pace

During Week 9's Chiefs-Bills matchup, Josh Allen recorded the highest completion percentage of his career, while Patrick Mahomes recorded the lowest of his career. pic.twitter.com/kvOOKKusvp

— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) November 3, 2025

Josh Allen’s Expected Points Added per Dropback ranks 5th in the NFL with +0.2 as well. He also gets a boost from his clutchness, orchestrating 2 game winning drives already in the season. Overall his TD total would rank Tied 20th in NFL history for a QB, tied with 2020 Tom Brady, 2019 Lamar Jackson, and 2014 Andrew Luck. The former 2 won the MVP award.

Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs​

The current betting runner up to win MVP, Mahomes is no stranger to the award buzz. The Chiefs QB won the award in 2018 in his first season as a starter throwing 50 TDs (and Rushing for another 2), the 2nd most TDs in a Season ever behind only Peyton Manning in 2013; and won his 2nd MVP in 2022 after throwing the 4th most Yards in NFL history (5,250) and 41 TDs (rushing for another 4 TDs). Mahomes is one of just 11 NFL players with multiple MVPs, and if he gets another he joins Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Jim Brown, and Johnny Unitas in a 5 way tie for 3rd most MVPs in NFL history behind only Aaron Rodgers (4), and Peyton Manning (5).

Mahomes has been arguably the NFL’s biggest star since 2018, and with 3 Super Bowl Championships, 5 Super Bowl Appearances, and the Chiefs making to ever AFC Championship Game since being named their starting QB the media spotlight has never left him and the team. Even during down years statistically in 2023-2024, there were still some talking heads of the media who wanted to push Mahomes MVP talk despite more dominant players (namely Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson) putting up better numbers.

Patrick Mahomes is winning MVP. pic.twitter.com/4ZXwtM2lYn

— Hayden Winks (@HaydenWinks) October 21, 2025

2025 has been a return to the Chiefs’ passing ways, with the run game sputtering compared to recent years. Mahomes has had to step up once again, and has had a strong season. Despite missing several of his best weapons, Mahomes is still Mahomes. His 2025 stats in 9 games so far and his end of season pace are certainly impressive, especially when considering the absences of Wide Receivers Xavier Worthy at the start of the season and Rashee Rice until the last few games.

• 204/316 Passing (64.6% Completion Percentage) | 385/597 Passing Pace
• 2,349 Passing Yards | 4,437 Passing Yard Pace
• 17 Passing TDs | 32 Passing TD Pace
• 5 INTs | 9 INT Pace
• 98.19 Passer Rating | 98.38 Passer Rating Pace
• 47 Carries | 89 Carry Pace
• 285 Rushing Yards | 538 Rushing Yard Pace
• 4 Rushing TDs | 8 Rushing TD Pace
• 3 Fumbles | 6 Fumble Pace

Mahomes’ case is also strengthened by his advanced stats, as he is 2nd in Expected Points Added (+71.7) and 6th in EPA per Dropback (+0.19). He is also 1st in EPA per dropback against pressure in 2025, continuing to show his trademark elite improvisational skills and calm in the face of pressure.

Patrick Mahomes day is done. First game with his full supporting cast:

74.3% CMP
286 YDS
3 TDS
126.6 RTG

MVP. pic.twitter.com/6REVrrL5Md

— Joel Moran (@joelvmoran) October 19, 2025

The biggest thing holding Mahomes back is a lack of team success. The Chiefs are just 5-4 in 2025 so far and are currently on the outside looking in of the AFC Playoffs. If Joe Burrow’s 2024 MVP candidacy was dismissed for not leading the Bengals to the playoffs last year, Mahomes’ 2025 campaign could be as well.

While Mahomes’ stats aren’t at a historic level, his high touchdown numbers, low turnover numbers, and elite play when things break down make him a top contender for the MVP.

Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots​

The young up and comer, 2nd year QB Drake Maye took a big leap so far this season. With better weapons (Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins in Free Agency, Kyle Williams in the Draft), much better protection (Will Campbell and Jared Wilson Rounds 1 and 3 of the Draft), and potentially better coaching (Jarod Mayo to Mike Vrabel) a more supported Maye is enjoying 2025 and putting up strong numbers. As of now he has guided the Patriots to a 7-2 record, tied with the Colts and the Broncos for the top of the AFC (currently the 2 seed based off of tiebreakers).

His 2025 Stats paint a story of an emerging elite passer, and could be the successor to Tom Brady the Patriots have waited for in the last half decade.

• 189/255 Passing (74.1% Comp%, 1st in NFL) | 357/482 Passing Pace
• 2,285 Passing Yards | 4,316 Passing Yard Pace
• 17 Passing TDs | 32 Passing TD Pace
• 4 INTs | 8 INT Pace
• 116.9 Passer Rating | 116.33 Passer Rating Pace
• 59 Carries | 111 Carry Pace
• 270 Rushing Yards | 510 Rushing Yard Pace
• 2 Rushing TDs | 4 Rushing TD Pace
• 6 Fumbles | 11 Fumble Pace

Maye ranks 3rd in EPA/dropback, 1st in total EPA, and 1st in Completion Percentage Over Expected this season, showing that advanced stats favor him to win the MVP. He isn’t dinking and dunking his way to success, he is the best deep passer in the NFL this season.

Drake Maye has posted a 100+ passer rating in 8 straight games pic.twitter.com/SWLsysS3aL

— PFF (@PFF) November 6, 2025

Still there are some factors that hold him below Allen and Mahomes in the MVP odds.

Maye has also had some issues in the turnover department compared to the other NFL MVP candidates. While his INTs are even or close to the aforementioned Mahomes and Allen, Maye has put the ball on the field too often with 6 Fumbles. His 4 Fumbles Lost lead the NFL, a blemish on an otherwise outstanding statistical profile.

The Patriots Strength of Schedule has been (and will be for the rest of the season) the easiest in the NFL. The only 2 teams he has faced this season so far that could be playoff teams are the Steelers (who he lost to in Week 3) and the Bills (who he beat in Week 5). As good as his stats are, the lack of games against top competition can put an asterisk on his numbers if other QB MVP candidates are close statistically. With games against the Buccaneers, the Bills again, and the Ravens providing the biggest remaining challenges on the schedule, perhaps big performances in those games could move Maye to the top of the MVP odds.

Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams​

Veteran Matthew Stafford has had a long career filled with strong stats, gritty tough clutch play, trying to overcome a lack of support around him early on, and eventually culminating in a Super Bowl win in 2021. The one thing missing in his career? A (non-Super Bowl) MVP. While bringing a Super Bowl to Los Angeles might be enough to cement Stafford as a Hall of Fame QB, an MVP award could truly solidify it and potentially start the conversation for first ballot.

The 37 year old passer is one of the last remnants of the era of pure pocket passers, the 3rd oldest starting QB in the NFL younger only to Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco. But despite his age, Stafford can still sling it with one of the strongest arms in the NFL.

• 184/274 Passing (67.2% Comp%) | 391/582 Passing Pace
• 2,174 Passing Yards | 4,620 Passing Yard Pace
• 21 Pass TDs | 45 Passing TD Pace
• 2 INTs | 4 INT Pace
• 113.2 Passer Rating | 114.05 Passer Rating Pace
• 21 Carries | 45 Carry Pace
• -6 Rushing Yards | -13 Rushing Yard Pace
• 0 Rushing TDs
• 5 Fumbles | 11 Fumbles

Not enough people are talking about Matthew Stafford as the MVP this year

16-0 TD/INT ratio his last 5 games

2nd in PFF passing grade
6th in Yards
T-9th with 7.8 YPA
21-2 TD/INT Ration
T-1 in Big Time Throws with 21
2.2% TWP rate (8th best)
6th in Passer rating pic.twitter.com/XRVLTynNj5

— Corey Buschlen (@FootballStock) November 7, 2025

Stafford’s passing numbers are very strong, with 45 Passing TD pace tied for 9th (with 2024 Lamar Jackson) in Total TDs and tied for 8th (with 2011 Aaron Rodgers) in Passing TDs in a single season. Combine that with a very low 4 INT pace, and Stafford’s base stats have a good shot for MVP.

What is holding him back from higher MVP consideration is his EPA/Drop back is only tied 7th in the NFL and is tied 11th when under pressure. Stafford has had the benefit of a pair of elite Wide Receivers in Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to throw to, as well as a solid pass blocking line (ranked 4th in Pass Pro Win % per ESPN). The help that Stafford long sought for early on in his career might be holding him back from the top award in the NFL in an ironic twist of fate, not that Stafford is complaining. The veteran would much rather win games than win awards, and after the Rams close Divisional Round loss to the eventual Super Bowl Champion Eagles, Stafford is prioritizing winning his 2nd ring over his first MVP.

What Does Taylor Need To Win MVP?​

Each of these 4 QBs might not have historic level seasons of box score production, but they are all having strong seasons that have MVP cases. What can the Colts talented back do to stand out among this crowded MVP race?

• Taylor needs HISTORIC production.

If Jonathan Taylor can get to 30+ Total TDs, perhaps even breaking LaDainian Tomlinson’s record, that should be enough to win serious MVP votes. If he can’t get to that high of scoring and is in the mid 20s of TDs, he would need to get to over 2,000 Rushing Yards and potentially threaten the single season rushing Yard record. Taylor unfortunately is far from those yardage marks at this point and would need a monster 2nd half performance to catch up to Eric Dickerson’s 2,105 Rushing Yard record (average 151 Rushing Yards per game in the final 8 games of the season instead of his current 99.4 Rushing Yard per game), so the Touchdown record is much more attainable at this point.

Johnathan Taylor would be the leading MVP candidate if this were the early 2000s. Sadly it’s a QB award now so only OPOY is in play but man does he look good. pic.twitter.com/TkDmev1ra1

— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) October 19, 2025

Perhaps an increase in workload early on in games to get the Colts their leads rather than just later to maintain the lead and secure the win would strengthen this aspect of his MVP candidacy?

• Taylor needs to Lead the Colts to a Top Spot in the AFC

A big reason for Adrian Peterson’s most recent Running back MVP wasn’t just his impressive stats, it was because he carried a Vikings team without a good passer at QB to the playoffs. While Daniel Jones has been very efficient and is even 12th in MVP odds behind Taylor, there could still be a stigma among Associated Press voters regarding his prior play in New York. If Taylor can shoulder the load of being the best offensive player on the best offense in the NFL that gets the Colts to potentially as high as the 1 seed in the NFL, that storyline could compel some voters to his MVP case.

Barring Taylor achieving both of those factors, his MVP candidacy sadly might come down to how his competitors do in the 2nd half of the season. Peterson got his MVP during a down QB year in 2012, and unfortunately the adage of it being a QB award has more than a few kernels of truth to it. Even if he doesn’t win MVP, there is always the Offensive Player of the Year Award to add to Taylor’s trophy case.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nflgeneral/116786/the-other-mvp-cases-besides-jonathan-taylor

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: Defensive Line Missing Three

The Indianapolis Colts released their Friday injury report today for Week 10 of the NFL season against the Atlanta Falcons in Germany.

we did not practice on friday. friday's practice report is only an estimation of a player's participation if there was a practice #ATLvsIND. pic.twitter.com/UafPbs1zwL

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) November 7, 2025

Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has been ruled OUT for Sundays game against the Falcons with a neck injury. Buckner was ruled out earlier in the week due to travel but was placed on injured reserve today. He will be out due a minimum of four weeks with the neck injury. Buckner being out leaves a huge hole in the middle of the defensive line which will have to be filled by Adetomiwa Adebawore and Neville Gallimore moving forward.

Defensive ends Tyquan Lewis (groin) and Samson Ebukam (knee) have both been ruled OUT for Sundays game against the Falcons. Both have now missed multiple games with their respective injuries. Expect a larger role for rookie defensive end JT Tuimoloau and a practice squad enervation to help at defensive end Sunday.

Colts wide receiver (and special teams returnman) Anthony Gould has been listed as QUESTIONABLE for Sunday’ss game against the Falcons. Gould is a big part of the return game in special teams and was surely missed last week which was evident in the mistake that came on special teams.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ts-injury-report-defensive-line-missing-three

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts hope they found the secret “sauce” to a championship run

No, that isn’t Josh Downs out there. A new number one has joined the Indianapolis Colts and is slated to be the number one starting cornerback for years to come. A position that is essential in football is now locked down and will look to lock down the game’s top receivers. Sauce Gardner came at a serious price, but if he delivers, no one will care. His debut will come immediately as he made the trek to Germany to join the Colts as they attempt to take down the Falcons in Berlin.

Opinions are divided with some seeing this as an overpay while others claiming Gardner is the missing piece on a championship run. When he makes his debut on Sunday, it is essential to understand one game’s work won’t tell the whole tale. As reported, Chris Ballard was given the choice from Carlie Irsay-Gordon to either band-aid it or fix it permanently. He chose the permanent route by making a home run swing. This is exactly the type of move serious contenders should make. The Colts showed fortitude with this move and truly believe it will pay off.

With all the success this team has had, there are certainly areas for improvement. The pass rush and back of the defense needed work. The defensive front has been hit by the injury bug so having Gardner available is even more important. They will need him to be extremely solid in coverage if they can’t create consistent pressure up front. DeForest Buckner is out for a bit, but the bye week should help others get healthy.

In the meantime, Gardner will need to prove his worth, and why wouldn’t he? He has been one of the best in the game and moving from a 1-7 team to 7-2 would be a shot in the arm for any player. Expect any slowdowns in his game, if there are any, to be rejuvenated as the excitement to play for a contender kicks in. The Colts are hoping for the player they saw in New York. If they get a more focused and even better version, they will be blown away, and it will justify everything they gave to obtain him.

Chris Ballard has used band-aids in the past to address areas of need. Not this time. Sauce Gardner is a long term solution and potential cornerstone of this franchise. A cornerback with his talent can change the game. Take away or severely limit the best receiver on any team and things get a lot harder. On a 53 man roster, it is hard to move the needle. Gardner won’t move it as much as a quarterback could, but he can make a huge difference. Even a small one could be enough to bring a championship to Indianapolis.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...-found-the-secret-sauce-to-a-championship-run