Spencer Shrader earns Indianapolis Colts kicking position for 2026 season

The Indianapolis Colts named Spencer Shrader their kicker for the 2026 season following a head-to-head competition with Blake Grupe during training camp. While Grupe held an advantage during the initial portion of camp, the team emphasized preseason performance as a primary factor in their final evaluation. Shrader secured the role by successfully converting all five of his field goal attempts during the preseason, including three kicks from beyond 50 yards, compared to a 2-for-4 showing by Grupe. The competition concluded on roster cutdown day after an intense battle that Shrader characterized as a mentally challenging experience. Shrader, who missed significant time last season due to an ACL injury, stated he regained his form toward the end of the evaluation period. The Colts now move forward with their finalized special teams unit as they prepare for the start of the regular season in Week 1.

• 10:52 AMYahoo Sports — Colts' Spencer Shrader on winning kicker competition