Indianapolis, January 21, 2026
The Indianapolis Colts are grappling with significant injuries to key players as they pursue a playoff berth. Quarterback Daniel Jones has been ruled out for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is on injured reserve, while cornerback Charvarius Ward faces a similar fate after a third concussion. With supplemental injuries affecting other players, the Colts are determined to adapt and continue their playoff efforts despite the challenges.
Indianapolis Colts Face Multiple Injuries Amidst Playoff Push
Indianapolis, IN – The Indianapolis Colts’ playoff aspirations have been significantly impacted by a series of key player injuries in recent weeks.
Quarterback Daniel Jones Suffers Season-Ending Achilles Injury
In a critical Week 14 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, quarterback Daniel Jones sustained a torn Achilles tendon in the first quarter, ending his season prematurely. Jones had been playing through a fractured fibula in his left leg over the past few weeks. Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard replaced Jones during the game, completing 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards and an interception.
Defensive Tackle DeForest Buckner Placed on Injured Reserve
Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was placed on injured reserve on November 7 due to a neck injury sustained in Week 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team has not provided a specific timetable for his return.
Cornerback Charvarius Ward’s Third Concussion Leads to IR Placement
Cornerback Charvarius Ward was placed on injured reserve on December 10 after suffering his third concussion of the season. This injury will sideline him for at least the final four games of the regular season.
Rookie Linebacker Jaylon Carlies Returns from Shoulder Surgery
Linebacker Jaylon Carlies, who underwent shoulder surgery in April, was activated from injured reserve on December 6, allowing him to make his season debut in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Placekicker Spencer Shrader Out for the Season
Placekicker Spencer Shrader suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee during a Week 5 game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He will miss the remainder of the 2025 season.
Quarterback Anthony Richardson’s Shoulder Injury Affects Minicamp Participation
Quarterback Anthony Richardson sustained a shoulder injury during organized team activities in early June, leading to his absence from the team’s minicamp. The injury was described as an aggravation of his AC joint, and he was expected to return to throwing activities once fully recovered.
Preseason Injury to Quarterback Anthony Richardson
In August, Richardson suffered a dislocated pinky during a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens. He was considered “day-to-day” following the injury.
Injury to Running Back During Training Camp
During training camp in August, a severe injury occurred to a running back on Day 9. The specifics of the injury were not detailed, but it was significant enough to impact the team’s preparations.
Injuries to Cornerbacks Sauce Gardner and Jaylon Jones
Cornerback Sauce Gardner sustained a calf injury in the first quarter of the Colts’ Week 13 loss to the Houston Texans. Head coach Shane Steichen stated that Gardner would “miss some time” but was expected to return during the 2025 season.
Additionally, cornerback Jaylon Jones was placed on injured reserve after suffering a concussion. The team has not provided further details regarding his recovery timeline.
Impact on the Colts’ Playoff Hopes
These injuries have posed significant challenges for the Colts as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the AFC South division. The team is actively working to adjust its roster and strategies to overcome these setbacks and continue their pursuit of a playoff berth.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the Colts will need to rely on their depth and adaptability to navigate the remainder of the schedule. The coaching staff is focused on developing the team’s resilience and ensuring that all players are prepared to step up in the absence of their injured teammates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the status of quarterback Daniel Jones?
Daniel Jones sustained a torn Achilles tendon in the first quarter of the Week 14 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, ending his season prematurely.
Who is replacing Daniel Jones as quarterback?
Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard has stepped in to replace Daniel Jones. In his first start, Leonard completed 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards and an interception.
What is the current status of defensive tackle DeForest Buckner?
DeForest Buckner was placed on injured reserve on November 7 due to a neck injury sustained in Week 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team has not provided a specific timetable for his return.
What is the status of cornerback Charvarius Ward?
Charvarius Ward was placed on injured reserve on December 10 after suffering his third concussion of the season. This injury will sideline him for at least the final four games of the regular season.
Who is replacing kicker Spencer Shrader?
The Colts have not publicly announced a replacement for kicker Spencer Shrader, who suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee during a Week 5 game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He will miss the remainder of the 2025 season.
Key Features of the Indianapolis Colts’ Recent Injuries
| Player | Injury | Impact | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daniel Jones | Torn Achilles Tendon | Season-ending injury | Out for the season |
| DeForest Buckner | Neck Injury | Placed on injured reserve | Out indefinitely |
| Charvarius Ward | Concussion | Placed on injured reserve | Out for at least four games |
| Spencer Shrader | Torn ACL and MCL in right knee | Season-ending injury | Out for the season |
| Anthony Richardson | Shoulder Injury | Missed minicamp | Day-to-day |
| Anthony Richardson | Dislocated Pinky | Day-to-day | Day-to-day |
| Running Back | Severe Injury | Impacted training camp | Out for the season |
| Sauce Gardner | Calf Injury | Out for the season | Expected to return during 2025 season |
| Jaylon Jones | Concussion | Placed on injured reserve | Out indefinitely |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
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