Overview
- The Indianapolis Colts signed wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. and punter Thomas Morstead to the practice squad and released rookie WR Eli Pancol, a transaction the team announced Tuesday.
- Hardman is a 28-year-old veteran with 178 career catches, return-specialist honors and three Super Bowl rings who has not played in the 2026 regular season and will compete for elevation to the active roster.
- Morstead is a 17-season veteran and former Pro Bowler signed as immediate insurance after Rigoberto Sanchez appeared to be hurt on a blocked punt in Week 6.
- Both signings are low-risk, short-term roster moves that let the Colts add experience in practice with the option to elevate either player to the 53-man roster if needed.
- Some outlets noted the timing of the roster changes as the franchise begins personnel adjustments after the reported firing of general manager Chris Ballard, signaling short-term fixes while broader decisions unfold.