Sauce Gardner sidelined after early calf injury vs. Texans, leaves game in walking boot

Sauce Gardner Injury Update

The Indianapolis Colts suffered an early setback during their matchup against the Houston Texans when cornerback Sauce Gardner exited the game on the opening drive with a calf injury. Gardner, who was recently acquired by the Colts at the trade deadline, was later seen wearing a walking boot on his right leg.

Details of the Incident

Gardner appeared to grimace after planting his foot while defending a pass play during Houston’s first series. Medical staff evaluated him on the sideline before escorting him to the locker room for further testing. Not long after, the Colts officially ruled him out for the remainder of the game.

Team Response and Next Steps

Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed postgame that Gardner would undergo imaging to assess the severity of the injury. The team remains hopeful it is only a short-term issue, though initial signs suggest caution given Gardner’s importance to the secondary.

Background

Since joining Indianapolis, Gardner has quickly become a defensive cornerstone, bringing his All-Pro level play from his time with the New York Jets. His absence left a noticeable gap, forcing the Colts to rely on depth players against Houston’s passing attack.

“We’re going to take it day by day,” Steichen said after the game. “Sauce is a competitor, and we’ll know more once the tests come back.”

Outlook

The Colts will update Gardner’s status in the coming days as they prepare for their next divisional matchup. Any extended absence would be a major blow to a defense that has leaned heavily on his coverage skills and leadership.

Author’s summary: Cornerback Sauce Gardner left the Colts-Texans game early with a calf injury, was ruled out, and will undergo further evaluation after being seen in a walking boot.

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CBS Sports CBS Sports — 2025-11-30

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