Indianapolis, December 4, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed kicker Blake Grupe to strengthen their special teams after the release of Michael Badgley due to missed extra points. Grupe, who was formerly with the New Orleans Saints, is expected to debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With both teams tied at 8-4, this match is crucial for playoff positioning. Grupe aims to stabilize the Colts’ kicking game for the remainder of the season and is familiar with the team through their special teams coordinator.
Indianapolis, IN – The Indianapolis Colts have signed kicker Blake Grupe to their practice squad, following the release of Michael Badgley. Grupe is expected to make his debut in the upcoming AFC South matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Grupe, 27, was waived by the New Orleans Saints on November 25 after converting 18 of 26 field goal attempts this season. He also made all 15 of his extra-point attempts. Over his three-year tenure with the Saints, Grupe completed 75 of 94 field goals and 86 of 88 extra points. Notably, he worked with Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason during their time at Notre Dame in 2022.
The Colts’ decision to sign Grupe comes after releasing Badgley, who missed his third extra point in seven games during a recent loss to the Houston Texans. This miss proved costly, as it prevented the Colts from attempting a game-tying field goal in the final minutes.
With both the Colts and Jaguars holding an 8-4 record, Grupe’s addition aims to stabilize the Colts’ kicking game as they prepare for a crucial division game against their rivals.
Background on Blake Grupe
- Early Career: Grupe began his collegiate career at Arkansas State, where he played from 2017 to 2021. In his final season, he made 30 of 37 field goal attempts and all 40 extra-point attempts, leading the team with 130 points.
- Notre Dame Experience: In 2022, Grupe transferred to Notre Dame, where he continued to showcase his kicking abilities.
- Professional Career: After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Grupe signed with the New Orleans Saints. Over three seasons, he demonstrated consistency, making 75% of his field goals and 97.7% of his extra points.
Colts’ Kicking Situation
- Spencer Shrader’s Injury: The Colts’ original kicker, Spencer Shrader, suffered a season-ending knee injury in October, leading to the signing of Michael Badgley.
- Michael Badgley’s Performance: Badgley joined the Colts after Shrader’s injury but faced challenges, including multiple missed extra points, culminating in his release.
- Grupe’s Role: With Grupe’s signing, the Colts aim to solidify their kicking game for the remainder of the season, starting with the pivotal game against the Jaguars.
Upcoming Game
The Colts are set to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a critical AFC South game. Both teams are tied at 8-4, making this matchup crucial for playoff positioning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Colts release Michael Badgley?
The Colts released Michael Badgley after he missed his third extra point in seven games, which impacted the team’s ability to tie a recent game against the Houston Texans.
What is Blake Grupe’s background?
Blake Grupe began his collegiate career at Arkansas State, transferred to Notre Dame in 2022, and then played three seasons with the New Orleans Saints, making 75% of his field goals and 97.7% of his extra points.
When is the Colts’ next game?
The Colts are scheduled to play the Jacksonville Jaguars in an important AFC South matchup, both teams holding an 8-4 record.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Blake Grupe |
| Previous Team | New Orleans Saints |
| Colts’ Previous Kicker | Michael Badgley |
| Upcoming Game | Colts vs. Jaguars |
| Game Significance | AFC South division lead |
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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.
