Overview
- The Colts said Thursday that Gardner cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol after practicing with his new team, positioning him to be available for Sunday’s game in Berlin if activated.
- Indianapolis acquired the two-time All-Pro from the Jets for 2026 and 2027 first-round picks plus WR Adonai Mitchell and assumed his multi-year extension signed this summer.
- Gardner told reporters the move was a blessing, said he learned of the trade shortly before it became public, and described Indianapolis as his ideal situation with no added pressure.
- Coach Shane Steichen called Gardner a bona fide No. 1 corner and indicated he will play once cleared, while teammates described a jolt of confidence from the win-now move.
- A SportsLine model estimated the Colts’ Super Bowl odds rose from 5.6% to 6.6% after the deal, reflecting a measurable boost to a secondary that ranks near the bottom in yards allowed.