Chris Ballard explains why the Colts released defensive tackle Colby Wooden
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 6:36 PM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard waived defensive tackle Colby Wooden during the team's roster cutdowns this past Sunday. Ballard stated the decision stemmed from the performance of Tim Smith and Jerry Tillery, both of whom the team determined played better throughout the summer. The Colts previously acquired Wooden in a trade involving Zaire Franklin earlier this year. While Wooden possessed versatility and experience at nose tackle, the team viewed him as a fit for the 3-tech position, a depth chart spot already occupied by DeForest Buckner and Adetomiwa Adebawore. Following his release by Indianapolis, Wooden was claimed off waivers by the New Orleans Saints. The move concludes Wooden's tenure with the Colts shortly after his offseason arrival.
- •Colts general manager Chris Ballard waived defensive tackle Colby Wooden on Sunday.
- •The team favored the summer performance of backup nose tackles Tim Smith and Jerry Tillery.
- •Wooden was previously acquired by the Colts in a trade involving Zaire Franklin.
- •The New Orleans Saints claimed Colby Wooden off waivers following his release.
- •Wooden occupied a 3-tech role behind DeForest Buckner and Adetomiwa Adebawore.
- 6:36 PMYahoo Sports — Ballard on reasoning behind surprise release during roster cutdowns
"Chris Ballard addressed the Colts' decision to release DT Colby Wooden during roster cutdowns.
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