Indianapolis Colts’ cornerback Sauce Gardner exited the team’s Week 17 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars with a calf injury.
Afterward, head coach Shane Steichen discussed that decision.
“(His) calf was just tight, so we just played it safe,” Steichen said, via Colts.com.
Gardner returned to practice this week after missing the previous three games with a calf injury he suffered in Week 13 against Houston.
According to Pro Football Focus’ early tracking data, Gardner had allowed two completions on three targets for just 13 yards while also logging a pass breakup in this game.
His presence on the field changes the complexion of this Colts’ defense, not only because of his individual production, but he allows Lou Anarumo to call a much more aggressive game.
The Colts acquired Gardner from the New York Jets prior to the trade deadline. He has appeared in three games with the Colts, allowing only five completions on 10 targets at 7.6 yards per attempt. Gardner has two pass breakups as well.
Out of playoff contention, the Colts could choose to rest Gardner in Week 18.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Steichen with injury update on Colts Sauce Gardner after Week 17 loss
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
