Indianapolis, Indiana, December 29, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have decided to hold cornerback Sauce Gardner out of their Week 18 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars due to a recurring calf injury. Gardner, who recently returned from a three-game absence, experienced tightness in his calf during the previous match. This decision underlines the team’s commitment to player safety and health, especially as they focus on long-term development while being out of playoff contention.
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have made the strategic decision to hold cornerback Sauce Gardner out of their Week 18 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, citing a recurring calf injury. Gardner returned to action in Week 17 after being sidelined for three games, but he experienced tightness in his calf during the second half against the Jaguars, leading to his early exit. This cautious approach reflects the team’s commitment to the long-term health and performance of its players.
Head coach Shane Steichen emphasized that the decision to hold Gardner out was purely precautionary. Gardner himself expressed a strong desire to continue playing; however, he acknowledged the importance of prioritizing his health. This holding pattern not only affects Gardner’s availability but also showcases the Colts’ focus on player safety as they navigate the end of a challenging season.
The Colts secured Gardner from the New York Jets prior to the trade deadline, sending two first-round draft picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell in return. Since joining the team, Gardner has appeared in three games, showcasing his skills by allowing only five completions on ten targets for an impressive average of 7.6 yards per attempt, alongside two pass breakups. His performance has already made a positive impact on the Colts’ defense.
With the Colts now out of playoff contention, the organization is concentrating on player health and development as they head into the final week of the regular season. Gardner’s absence in Week 18 underscores this focus, as the team looks to foster the growth of its younger players and maintain a competitive edge for future seasons.
### Key Insights on Sauce Gardner’s Injury and Impact
– The Colts have opted to exercise caution with cornerback Sauce Gardner, holding him out of Week 18 due to a tight calf following his recent return from injury.
– Coach Shane Steichen confirmed that the strategy was to play it safe, valuing Gardner’s health above short-term competitive needs.
### Gardner’s Performance Insights
– After acquiring Gardner, he has demonstrated remarkable defensive skills, allowing minimal completions while making significant contributions through pass breakups.
– The investment in Gardner reflects a trend towards strengthening the Colts’ defensive lineup, showcasing the team’s commitment to enhancing overall team performance.
### Colts’ Focus Moving Forward
– With the playoffs out of reach, Indianapolis is enhancing its strategy towards player development and health management.
– This shift indicates a dedication to building a sustainable team structure for consistent future successes.
In conclusion, the Colts’ decision to prioritize Sauce Gardner’s health amid a challenging season is a testament to their commitment to the long-term viability of their star players. As the team moves forward without playoff aspirations, fostering player growth will become increasingly crucial for the restructuring of their lineup. Fans are encouraged to continue supporting local sports and engage in discussions about the Colts’ future strategies.
Why is Sauce Gardner being held out of Week 18?
Sauce Gardner is being held out of Week 18 due to a recurring calf injury. After returning in Week 17, he experienced tightness in his calf during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars, leading to his early exit.
What did Coach Shane Steichen say about Gardner’s injury?
Coach Shane Steichen stated that Gardner’s calf was “just tight,” prompting the team to “play it safe” and hold him out of the game.
What has been Gardner’s performance since joining the Colts?
Since joining the Colts, Gardner has appeared in three games, allowing only five completions on ten targets for 7.6 yards per attempt, along with two pass breakups.
What is the Colts’ current playoff situation?
The Colts are out of playoff contention, and the team is focusing on player health and development in the final week of the regular season.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Sauce Gardner |
| Injury | Calf tightness |
| Game Affected | Week 18 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Coach’s Statement | Gardner’s calf was “just tight,” prompting a precautionary holdout. |
| Performance Since Joining Colts | Allowed 5 completions on 10 targets for 7.6 yards per attempt, with 2 pass breakups. |
| Colts’ Playoff Status | Out of playoff contention, focusing on player health and development. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
