Brian Mason confirms Spencer Shrader as Colts starting kicker for 2026 season

Indianapolis Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason confirmed that Spencer Shrader has won the team's kicking competition. Shrader secured the starting role following a contest against Blake Grupe, which Mason described as the most difficult personnel decision of his career. Shrader earned the position after a strong preseason performance where he converted all five of his field goal attempts, including two kicks from 60 yards or further. The competition followed a difficult start to training camp for Shrader, who is continuing his recovery from an ACL injury that cut his 2025 season short. Mason praised the kicker's mental and physical preparation, expressing confidence that Shrader will perform at a career-high level as the team moves into the regular season.

• 1:10 AMYahoo Sports — Colts coach makes Spencer Shrader prediction ahead of 2026 season