Posted on Oct 07

Colts sign Badgley to replace injured Shrader: "Shrader tore two ligaments in the knee."

Posted Oct 7, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran kicker Michael Badgley to replace the injured Spencer Shrader, who has been ruled out for the season.

Why it matters: The Colts are facing a critical juncture in their kicking game as they aim to maintain their offensive momentum.

With an average of 32.6 points per game—ranking second in the NFL—losing Shrader, who led the league with 13 made field goals prior to his injury, poses a significant challenge for the team's scoring efficiency.
Badgley's experience could prove vital as the Colts navigate the remainder of the season without their starting kicker.

What’s new: Badgley returns to the Colts after a year away, stepping into a high-pressure role amidst Shrader's unfortunate season-ending knee injury.

The injury was severe enough that Shrader tore two ligaments in his right knee, forcing the Colts to seek immediate reinforcements at the kicker position.
Coach Shane Steichen confirmed the extent of the injury, noting, “Shrader tore two ligaments in the knee.”

By the numbers: Badgley, now 30, brings both experience and performance history with him.

In the 2021 season, he played 12 games for the Colts, converting 18 of 21 field goal attempts, reflecting a notable reliability.
Over his career, Badgley has maintained an 82.4% success rate on field goals; however, he has struggled with longer attempts, making only 5 of 13 from 50 yards or more.

Yes, but: While Badgley is a seasoned player, questions remain about his long-range accuracy.

His track record indicates that he may struggle under pressure when distance is required, which could affect how the Colts approach play-calling in crucial moments.
However, if he can replicate his previous performance, he may provide the stability needed during this transitional phase.

What’s next: The Colts will need Badgley to quickly adapt to their system and establish chemistry with the rest of the special teams unit.

As the team gears up for Week 6, integrating Badgley into their existing framework will be essential to maintaining their scoring prowess.
The coaching staff will likely emphasize situational practice to boost Badgley’s confidence as he steps back into a pivotal role.

The bottom line: The Colts are banking on Michael Badgley to fill the substantial void left by Spencer Shrader’s injury, hoping that his past successes can translate into future victories.

Given the Colts' current offensive ranking, effective kicking will be crucial as they strive for continued success in the highly competitive landscape of the NFL.

Colts sign Badgley to replace injured Shrader: "Shrader tore two ligaments in the knee."

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 7, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran kicker Michael Badgley to replace the injured Spencer Shrader, who has been ruled out for the season.

Why it matters: The Colts are facing a critical juncture in their kicking game as they aim to maintain their offensive momentum.

With an average of 32.6 points per game—ranking second in the NFL—losing Shrader, who led the league with 13 made field goals prior to his injury, poses a significant challenge for the team's scoring efficiency.

Badgley's experience could prove vital as the Colts navigate the remainder of the season without their starting kicker.

What’s new: Badgley returns to the Colts after a year away, stepping into a high-pressure role amidst Shrader's unfortunate season-ending knee injury.

The injury was severe enough that Shrader tore two ligaments in his right knee, forcing the Colts to seek immediate reinforcements at the kicker position.

Coach Shane Steichen confirmed the extent of the injury, noting, “Shrader tore two ligaments in the knee.”

By the numbers: Badgley, now 30, brings both experience and performance history with him.

In the 2021 season, he played 12 games for the Colts, converting 18 of 21 field goal attempts, reflecting a notable reliability.

Over his career, Badgley has maintained an 82.4% success rate on field goals; however, he has struggled with longer attempts, making only 5 of 13 from 50 yards or more.

Yes, but: While Badgley is a seasoned player, questions remain about his long-range accuracy.

His track record indicates that he may struggle under pressure when distance is required, which could affect how the Colts approach play-calling in crucial moments.

However, if he can replicate his previous performance, he may provide the stability needed during this transitional phase.

What’s next: The Colts will need Badgley to quickly adapt to their system and establish chemistry with the rest of the special teams unit.

As the team gears up for Week 6, integrating Badgley into their existing framework will be essential to maintaining their scoring prowess.

The coaching staff will likely emphasize situational practice to boost Badgley’s confidence as he steps back into a pivotal role.

The bottom line: The Colts are banking on Michael Badgley to fill the substantial void left by Spencer Shrader’s injury, hoping that his past successes can translate into future victories.

Given the Colts' current offensive ranking, effective kicking will be crucial as they strive for continued success in the highly competitive landscape of the NFL.