Here’s a bold statement: the Indianapolis Colts are in a kicking crisis, and it’s more complicated than you might think. But here’s where it gets controversial—is bringing in a new kicker mid-season the right move, or are they setting themselves up for more uncertainty? Let’s dive in.
The Colts are holding tryouts for kickers this Tuesday, according to league sources, as they scramble to find a reliable solution to their kicking woes. Among the candidates is former Saints kicker Blake Grupe, though notably absent are some of the eight kickers who auditioned after Spencer Shrader’s season-ending ACL and MCL injuries. Shrader’s absence left the Colts in a tough spot, forcing them to prioritize accuracy over leg strength with veteran kicker Michael Badgley.
Badgley has been solid inside the 50-yard line, converting 10 of 11 field goals, including two from 50-plus yards. And this is the part most people miss—while his field goal accuracy is impressive, his three missed extra points in seven games have raised red flags. This inconsistency prompted the Colts to reopen the search for a kicker who can deliver under pressure.
“We have to be able to make the layups and the free throws,” said Indianapolis special teams coordinator Brian Mason. “It’s inexcusable. We’re evaluating all options, but the challenge is finding someone who’s both reliable and available this late in the season.”
The timing couldn’t be worse. With the Colts tied atop the AFC South and facing the NFL’s toughest schedule in the next five weeks, they need a kicker they can trust immediately. Unlike their approach with Shrader, who was chosen for his potential and mental toughness, the Colts now need proven experience and consistency. Here’s the kicker (pun intended)—most available kickers, like Grupe, have already been cut by other teams this season, making them risky choices.
“Shane [Steichen] needs to trust the kicker as he’s calling the game,” Mason added. “We’re looking for someone who can handle pressure, make PATs, and be reliable within 50 yards. The luxury of developing a kicker is gone—we need results now.”
Evaluating kickers mid-season is tricky. While a kicker’s past performance is important, the Colts are also assessing how they’re hitting the ball right now. Kicking is a volatile position, and mechanics matter just as much as results. “Did the ball have end-over-end rotation? Was it down the middle? How consistent are their mechanics?” Mason explained. These are the questions the Colts are asking as they decide whether to make a change.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Should the Colts take a chance on an unproven kicker with potential, or stick with a veteran who’s inconsistent but has a track record? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over. One thing’s for sure: the Colts’ kicking position is on the brink of a major shift, and the next five weeks will be a make-or-break moment for whoever gets the job.
