The Indianapolis Colts are making a bold move as they prepare to integrate their new star, Sauce Gardner, into the lineup. Gardner joined his new teammates for practice on Wednesday and is hopeful to play against the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin this Sunday, pending clearance from the concussion protocol, according to head coach Shane Steichen.
Gardner was acquired from the New York Jets just before the NFL trade deadline in exchange for two first-round draft picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. The cornerback sustained a concussion during the Jets” victory over the Bengals in Week 8 and, due to a bye week last week, he has not yet had the chance to pass through the protocol.
In his first comments following the trade, Steichen expressed his commitment to having Gardner ready for the game. “That”s the plan,” he stated, reflecting the team”s eagerness to bolster their roster. This significant trade has sparked a wave of excitement within the Colts” organization, especially in the locker room.
Currently tied for the best record in the NFL at 7-2, the Colts are viewed as serious contenders for the Super Bowl this season. The front office”s decision to part with future draft picks indicates a commitment to winning now, a sentiment echoed by players. Quarterback Daniel Jones remarked, “This year, we”ve played well. There”s still a lot in front of us, and we”ve got to continue to improve and play well week to week. But we as players, when you see that movement from ownership, from management and the coaches, I think it definitely gives you confidence.”
The energy in the locker room was palpable when players returned from their day off on Wednesday. With one of the NFL”s most dynamic offenses, led by Jones and rushing leader Jonathan Taylor, the Colts are now aiming to assemble a formidable defensive backfield by adding Gardner alongside cornerback Charvarius Ward, slot corner Kenny Moore II, and safeties Camryn Bynum and Nick Cross.
Linebacker Zaire Franklin captured the mood of the team, saying, “That was probably the best “good morning” we got in a team meeting since I”ve been here. It”s definitely great energy just knowing that the organization and management is believing in what you”ve got going on. You want to make them right.”
While Gardner did not address the media due to concussion protocol rules, his college teammate and friend, receiver Alec Pierce, shared his belief that the trade will invigorate Gardner. “I think being in this environment and being on a team that has a good record, I think that”ll bring out the best out of him. I”m excited to see what he can do,” Pierce said.
