Overview
- Gardner was acquired from the Jets for two first-round picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell after signing a four-year, $120.4 million extension this summer.
- He debuted days later in Berlin, helping Indianapolis beat Atlanta 31-25 in overtime to reach 8-2 and holding Drake London to two catches for 26 yards on four targets.
- Gardner said the rapid move was a tough week as he learned a new playbook and flew to Indy and Germany, and he celebrated his first win of the season.
- The Colts will be light on 2026 draft capital after the deal, and the team confirmed Gardner will keep wearing No. 1 as they lean into a current title window.
- Analysts praised his high-end coverage traits but noted inconsistency, citing a misread in the Falcons game that contributed to a touchdown as a reminder of the trade’s risk.