Spencer Shrader makes 61-yard field goal in tight Colts kicking competition
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 8:40 AM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
Colts kicker Spencer Shrader tied the game at 13 in a preseason matchup against the Patriots with a 61-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter. The kick came after a serious knee injury sidelined him last October, and it underscores a competitive battle for the starting position with veteran Blake Grupe. Shrader had struggled in training camp, but this field goal provides a boost to his confidence and marks a significant moment in his recovery. Colts head coach Shane Steichen emphasized the importance of preseason performance for both kickers.
- •Shrader's kick tied the game with 1:21 left in the second half.
- •He is returning from a torn ACL and MCL sustained last October.
- •Grupe led the competition prior to Shrader's strong performance.
- •Preseason game performance is crucial for the kicking battle.
- •Steichen confirmed the importance of this kick in evaluating both kickers.
- 8:40 AMYahoo Sports — How Spencer Shrader flipped the competition to be the Colts' kicker
"Colts K Spencer Shrader has struggled in his return from a serious knee injury but his 61-yard field goal tied the team's preseason opener
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