Overview
- Head coach Shane Steichen said Gardner practiced Wednesday and is expected to play against the Falcons in Germany if he clears the NFL’s concussion protocol.
- Indianapolis acquired Gardner from the Jets less than four hours before the deadline, sending 2026 and 2027 first-round picks plus wide receiver Adonai Mitchell.
- Steichen described the move as a boost to team confidence, noting defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s excitement about pairing Gardner with a talented secondary.
- Former NFL scout John Middlekauff criticized the price and questioned Gardner’s recent form despite his early-career accolades.
- Gardner signed a four-year, $120.4 million extension with New York in the offseason, underscoring the magnitude of the Colts’ win-now investment.