Indianapolis, December 28, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts prepare for a vital showdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars, facing both positive and negative injury updates. Cornerback Sauce Gardner is returning from a calf injury, while defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is out for the season due to surgery for a neck injury. Other players have also been ruled out for this critical game. The Colts aim to leverage their depth and maintain competitiveness amidst these challenges as they chase playoff hopes.
Indianapolis, IN – As the Indianapolis Colts gear up for a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, December 28, 2025, the team is encountering a mixed bag of injury news. Amidst the struggles, local enthusiasm for the Colts remains strong, reflecting the resilient spirit of both the team and its fanbase in Indianapolis.
Positive Injury News: Sauce Gardner’s Return
Cornerback Sauce Gardner, who was acquired from the New York Jets in early November, is set to make his return to the field after missing the last three games due to a strained calf. Head coach Shane Steichen has confirmed that Gardner will be ready to play against the Jaguars. The injury had initially raised concerns after Gardner had to leave early in the Colts’ Week 13 game against the Houston Texans but, fortunately, it was not as severe as it could have been.
Negative Injury News: DeForest Buckner’s Season-Ending Surgery
In contrast to the good news surrounding Gardner, the situation with defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is less encouraging. Buckner has been placed back on injured reserve due to an aggravated neck injury that had already sidelined him earlier in the season. Following the aggravation, Buckner is required to undergo surgery on his herniated disc, which will officially end his season with just two games left to play.
Additional Injury Updates
- Tanor Bortolini (concussion protocol): Ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars.
- Anthony Gould (foot): Ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars.
- Drew Ogletree (neck): Ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars.
- J.T. Tuimoloau (oblique): Ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars.
Background Context
Injuries have posed substantial challenges for the Colts throughout the 2025 season. The acquisition of Gardner was viewed as a pivotal move intended to enhance the team’s secondary, but his injury issues have limited his contributions. Buckner, a key defensive player, has also faced health struggles that have influenced the overall performance of the defensive line. The Colts are adapting to these challenges by emphasizing depth and fostering a “next man up” mentality as they strive to maintain competitiveness in the league.
Upcoming Game
The Colts are preparing to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM PST at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. This matchup is critical for the Colts as they seek to secure a victory that could bolster their playoff ambitions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the status of Sauce Gardner’s injury?
Sauce Gardner is expected to return to the lineup after missing the last three games due to a strained calf. He is anticipated to play against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, December 28, 2025.
2. What happened to DeForest Buckner?
DeForest Buckner aggravated a neck injury that previously sidelined him for five games earlier this season. He has been placed back on injured reserve and is expected to undergo surgery on his herniated disc, ending his season with two games remaining.
3. Who else is injured for the Colts?
In addition to Buckner, the following players have been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars: Tanor Bortolini (concussion protocol), Anthony Gould (foot), Drew Ogletree (neck), and J.T. Tuimoloau (oblique).
4. When is the Colts’ next game?
The Colts are scheduled to play the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM PST at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Positive Injury News | Sauce Gardner’s expected return after missing three games due to a strained calf. |
| Negative Injury News | DeForest Buckner placed back on injured reserve after aggravating a neck injury, ending his season. |
| Additional Injuries | Tanor Bortolini, Anthony Gould, Drew Ogletree, and J.T. Tuimoloau ruled out for the upcoming game. |
| Upcoming Game | Colts vs. Jaguars on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM PST at Lucas Oil Stadium. |
Now Happening on X
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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.
