After a strong start to the year, the Colts have fallen off sharply and currently sit outside the playoff picture. While the AFC South club remains mathematically alive, injuries have taken a significant toll at the worst possible time.

Quarterback Daniel Jones is already out for the season with a torn Achilles, and cornerback Sauce Gardner, who was acquired to strengthen the defense, is now dealing with health issues of his own.

Shane Steichen provides key update on Sauce Gardner

At the trade deadline, Indianapolis made a bold move by acquiring Gardner from the New York Jets in hopes of solidifying its secondary. However, injuries have prevented him from making the immediate impact the team envisioned.

The Colts have officially ruled Gardner out for their Week 16 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers due to a calf injury. Still, head coach Shane Steichen offered a cautiously optimistic outlook.

According to James Boyd of The Athletic, Steichen confirmed that Gardner will not play this week but is expected to return at some point before the end of the season.

While Steichen did not provide a specific timeline, his comments suggest Gardner could be available in Week 17 or Week 18, depending on his recovery and whether Indianapolis remains in playoff contention.

A risky trade under scrutiny

The Colts paid a steep price to acquire Gardner, sending wide receiver Adonai Mitchell along with two future first-round picks (2026 and 2027) to the Jets. To this point, the move has yet to pay off.

Indianapolis completed the trade while leading the division and seemingly on track for a postseason run. Since then, the team has stumbled, falling out of the playoff picture, leaving the organization facing tough questions about whether the aggressive move ultimately did more harm than good.

According to reporter Ari Meirov, who shared the update on his official X account (formerly Twitter), the Colts announced that the cornerback suffered a non-contact calf injury, and has been ruled out for the rest of today’s game.

One of the most impactful defensive players in the league arrived in Indianapolis at the last trade deadline to strengthen a unit that had been questioned throughout the campaign. It will now be a matter of determining the severity of his injury to understand what it could mean moving forward.

Gardner’s numbers during his short stint with the Colts

Cornerback Sauce Gardner has established himself as a premier shutdown defender in the Indianapolis Colts’ secondary this season. While the interceptions haven’t piled up, his presence alone has deterred opposing quarterbacks.

Gardner has accumulated 26 total tackles and is tied for the team lead with 8 passes defensed (PD), a testament to his elite coverage skills. Remarkably, he has yet to record an interception or a forced fumble, but his exceptional rate of breaking up passes highlights his continuous impact on stifling the opposition’s passing game.

Gardner’s arrival in Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Colts made one of the most significant moves at the recent trade deadline, acquiring All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner in a blockbuster deal. The decision by Colts management to pay a premium price for the former Jet immediately signaled their commitment to competing for a title this season.

Two first-round draft picks (2026 and 2027) and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell are what the New York franchise received, having stocked up on future draft selections — making Gardner’s arrival in Indianapolis far from cheap.

Gardner’s arrival instantly solidified the team’s secondary, providing the elite, lockdown coverage defender that the Colts defense had been missing. This bold trade has since paid dividends, transforming Indianapolis’s defensive unit into one of the league’s most formidable forces heading into the final stretch.

On Tuesday, the entire NFL world was stunned when the Jets made a blockbuster move by trading Sauce Gardner to the Colts. The cornerback later revealed that he wanted to finally play for a winning team. A message for the Jets?

“Please let it be my ideal situation,” Sauce Gardner told GM Darren Mougey when he knew he was being traded, via Kevin Bowen of 107.5 The Fan. “I don’t want to go to a losing team. I don’t want to go to a team on the other side of the world.”

Who won the trade between the Jets and the Colts?

The Colts sent two first-round picks to the Jets in exchange for Sauce Gardner. The talented cornerback appeared to have been held back by the Jets’ struggles in recent seasons.

A former first-round pick himself, Gardner had an outstanding rookie campaign in 2022. However, he has since struggled to consistently meet the high expectations that came with his debut season.

For many fans, the Colts may have given up too much to acquire Gardner. While Indianapolis needed to strengthen its secondary, the cornerback’s recent form has made some question whether the team paid too steep a price.

Gardner was still one of the Jets’ best players, so joining a current contender like the Colts could allow his skills to shine again. However, if he fails to deliver at the expected level, many fans will begin to question whether Indianapolis made the right move.

At 7-2, Indianapolis boasts the best record in the league (tied with the New England Patriots), and they aren’t stopping there. Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor and Michael Pittman have shone this season, but the defense needed something to reach the next level.

They hope that Gardner can elevate their game, especially considering that the cornerback position is experiencing a shortage. However, not everybody is convinced the Colts made a good move.

Analyst says Colts gave up too much for Sauce Gardner

In the wake of the blockbuster trade between the Colts and Jets, NFL analyst Pete Prisco disagreed with the move, saying that the Colts gave a lot for a player who hasn’t lived up to expectations.

“A reach? This is robbery,” Prisco said. “Not only are you getting two first-round picks back, you’re giving up an enormous salary. So the Colts are giving away two first-round picks for corner who has a big salary and hasn’t quite played up to expectations. This is a desperation move by the Indianapolis Colts. Sauce Gardner at best is a really good player, but he’s not worth two number ones.”

Gardner is expected to make his debut against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Going against a player like Drake London could show Prisco and others where the cornerback stands among the best in his position.

In a shocking move no one saw coming, the Jets traded Gardner to the Colts. While New York is clearly focused on stacking draft capital for the future, parting ways with one of the league’s best defensive players could prove to be a risky decision.

Sauce Gardner is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s elite cornerbacks. He had expressed deep love for New York and once jokingly threatened the organization about what would happen if they ever moved on from him.

Sauce Gardner once warned the Jets about a potential trade

In 2022, the Jets used the 4th overall pick in the NFL Draft to strengthen their defense, selecting Gardner out of Cincinnati — the top cornerback prospect of that class.

He quickly lived up to expectations, putting together a phenomenal rookie campaign that earned him the 2022 Defensive Rookie of the Year award and solidified him as a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense.

Despite the team’s ongoing struggles, Gardner often voiced his gratitude and commitment to the organization. He envisioned being part of the franchise’s long-term turnaround — but New York had other plans.

Following a disappointing 2025 season, the Jets traded Gardner to Indianapolis. The move blindsided the young star, especially after he had previously warned the team what would happen if he ever left.

Earlier this year, before signing his contract extension, Gardner told ESPN’s Rich Cimini in January: “I want to be part of this for a long time. I want to be part of the change in this organization. If I was to go somewhere else and then there was a change, I’d be a hater, for real. I’d be the No. 1 hater.”

Can the Jets turn things around as Gardner envisioned?

After starting the season 1–7, the Jets became major sellers at the trade deadline. Along with Sauce Gardner, the team also moved on from defensive lineman Quinnen Williams — and more departures could follow.

New York now holds five first-round picks across the next two drafts — two in 2026 and three in 2027. If the front office can capitalize on that draft stock, the Jets might finally build the future Gardner once hoped to be part of.

The information was reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz of FOX on his X account: “Jets RB Breece Hall wants to be traded, I’m told. A little over one hour until the deadline, but Breece ‘wants to be out.'”

Before Schultz’s report, Hall had already led to speculation about his future with a couple of cryptic social media posts following the Gardner and Williams trades. Hall’s reported trade request came shortly after the Jets sent Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts and Williams to the Dallas Cowboys in deals that included first-round draft picks, signaling the organization’s aggressive decision to rebuild.

Breece Hall, a coveted target in the NFL

Hall, 24, became one of the most coveted running backs in the NFL as rival teams see the Jets’ rebuild as an opportunity to land the Iowa State product while offering draft capital. This season, he boasts 117 carries for 581 yards with two touchdowns, in addition to 21 catches for 178 receiving yards.

The Jets didn’t mind parting with Gardner and Williams, but losing Hall might have been a completely different story. His departure would’ve represented a huge void in the RB room, and also leave the Jets without a key player to build around for the future. After all, the point of rebuilding is to eventually find success.

The Jets’ reported asking price for Breece Hall before the deadline

That’s why, before Schultz’s bombshell news, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network suggested that the Jets had no intention of trading Hall: “On a wild day in Florham Park, the Jets are not expected to trade Breece Hall, though there is still over an hour to the deadline… .”

Dianna Russini of The Athletic, however, claimed that the Jets had set their asking price for Hall: a third-round pick: “Teams have yet to meet New York’s ask with just over an hour to go until the deadline.”

Hall complains to Jets after failing to get traded

In the end, no deal was made before the trade deadline on Tuesday. According to Schultz, “offers weren’t good enough” for Hall and Jets teammates Quincy Williams and Jermaine Johnson II, who were also trade candidates before the deadline.

Hall still broke his silence on the Gardner and Williams trades, letting the Jets’ front office know about his frustration. Only time will tell us how his story in NY goes on after these drastic decisions.

“New York, it’s been real,” Gardner wrote on X shortly after news of the trade broke. In return, the Jets are reportedly receiving two first-round picks from the Colts in exchange for the talented defensive back and WR AD Mitchell, per Ian Rapoport.

Sauce Gardner spent four years with the New York Jets after joining the team as the 4th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He had an outstanding rookie season, but the team’s struggles in the following years prevented him from fully showcasing his elite talent.

Are the Jets also going to trade Garrett Wilson?

During the 2025 NFL trade deadline, the Jets became the sellers their fans didn’t want them to be. With a disappointing season underway, the front office decided to trade Sauce Gardner to acquire two first-round picks from the Colts and begin rebuilding the roster.

Unfortunately for fans, Gardner might not be the only star on the move. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson has been one of the few bright spots on offense, making him another potential trade asset for the team.

Several contenders, including the Broncos and Bills, are reportedly looking for receiver help. Wilson could easily become a top target for either franchise, both of which are pushing for playoff spots this year.

At the moment, there are no concrete rumors suggesting that the Jets will trade Garrett Wilson. However, there were none about Sauce Gardner either—so another surprise move before the deadline can’t be ruled out.

The New York Jets will face the Buffalo Bills in an AFC East showdown in Week 2. While all the focus is centered in the quarterback battle between Justin Fields and Josh Allen, the Jets just received an important update on one of the key players that could help them win the game.

Stopping Josh Allen and the Bills is no easy feat, they scored 41 points in Week 1. The offense is incredible, hence, the Jets should be glad to know that Sauce Gardner was a full participant after a groin injury limited his participation on Thursday.

According to Jets head coach Aaron Glenn, the All Pro cornerback won’t have any injury designation for Sunday’s game. This is key as having a talent like Gardner will go a long way on stopping the NFL MVP, Josh Allen.

Sauce Gardner vs. Bills

Sauce Gardner has played six games against the Bills in his career. During those games, he has 15 solo tackles, seven assists, and one interception. However, he hasn’t gotten an interception against Buffalo since 2022.

Gardner is one of the best cornerbacks in the league and is the highest-paid player in his position. Therefore, the Jets clearly envision him as a key to limit what Buffalo could do in the passing game.

How did Sauce Gardner play in Week 1?

Gardner had a tough matchup vs. Steelers’ receiver DK Metcalf in Week 1. He lined up against him on 30 of 34 pass plays by Pittsburgh. Sauce only allowed one 11-yard catch by Metcalf. All the other plays the wideout did where without Gardner covering him.

This year, Gardner will take number one receivers and follow them in motion. This is a change to his first couple of seasons in the NFL, when he played mostly on a zone scheme. With Aaron Glenn making new changes on defense, Gardner is taking more of a man-to-man approach to his game.

Despite not winning an NFL championship since Super Bowl III, the New York Jets are still somewhat relevant as far as football news concern. Even after Aaron Rodgers‘ departure, the team is ready to start looking for new, better days. One player specifically is trying to leave last season behind and recover his mojo.

That player is none other than cornerback Sauce Gardner. He has three years in the NFL, and in his first two seasons, he was selected All-Pro both times. By all means, Sauce Gardner is one of the best corners in the league. However, last year he wasn’t even a Pro Bowler, and he wants that to change.

“I know I’m not perfect, but the fact that he’s trying to get perfection out of me is what I need because, you know, I’ve had a lot of success, early success in the league,” Gardner said about defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. “And the last thing I need is a new regime to come in here and just allow me to be complacent.“

Sauce is working on getting more interceptions

While Gardner’s level has been absolutely stellar, one thing has been missing: interceptions. Gardner has played 48 games for the Jets, but despite being one of the best corners in the NFL, he only has 3 interceptions. Now, he still has 40 passes defended. You could also attribute the lack of picks to opposing quarterbacks. They just won’t risk the ball by challenging Sauce.

However, with the new coaching staff, a new defensive scheme is set in place. According to Sauce himself, “I always thank them (new coaching staff) every single day because they put me in a position to make plays.”

Gardner has the best coaching staff to evolve his game

Wilks has a long career in the NFL but it’s Aaron Glenn the one who has to be thrilled. Glenn played corner for 15 years, so he knows the ins and out of the position. He even was a 3-time Pro Bowler. Also, defensive backs assistant Dre’ Bly made two Pro Bowls as well, and he had 43 interceptions.

This has to be music to Gardner’s ears. If he is able to develop into a greater player, he might become a generational talent that marks an era. This new defensive scheme has the potential to do wonders for Sauce.

Life can be poetic sometimes. For Aaron Rodgers, this season is a full-blown Hollywood movie. Not only was his signing for the Pittsburgh Steelers a dramatic saga, but now, he will face plenty of intriguing opponents as his ‘last dance’ approaches. It all starts in Week 1 actually, when he faces the New York Jets, his last team.

One of his former teammates has stated that Week 1 will be a chess game. Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, Sauce Gardner stated that he’s “looking forward to the challenge” of facing A-Rod.

“He might think he knows all the tendencies that I have, but this offseason has really been me trying not to give nothing away,” Gardner said on the show. “I’ve been trying to work on literally everything because I already know I’m about to go against a wizard Week 1. I already know what time it is.”

Sauce Gardner is an elite corner

Sauce Gardner has played for three years in the NFL, and on two of those years, he’s been selected to the All-Pro first team. And, judging by his words, even if he has the utmost respect for Rodgers, he’s craving the opportunity to face him.

During his three years in the league, Sauce Gardner has never allowed more than a 56 completion percentage to opposing quarterbacks. The QBs throwing his way have a 74.6 passing rate. By all means, Gardner is one of the best corners in the whole NFL.

Rodgers’ schedule is a poetic thing

First week, he face the Jets, his most recent team. He will also face his other former team, the Green Bay Packers in Week 8. Alongside Green Bay, he has his former NFC North foes like the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4. Rodgers will also face the Chicago Bears on Soldier Field and the Detroit Lions in Week 16.

Besides that, he will face Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson twice, and possibly Shedeur Sanders, as part of the AFC North calendar. You can also add showdowns vs. Justin Herbert, Josh Allen, and Tua Tagovailoa. Grab your popcorn and enjoy Steelers‘ football this season.

In recent months, there have been several high-profile cases where star players were at serious risk of leaving due to unresolved contract situations. That’s why, in the Big Apple, the Jets are looking to get ahead of any potential setbacks.

Building a competitive roster around Wilson and Gardner is a must, and talks about their contract extensions are gradually starting to take shape. While it’s still early in the process, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has started to share some details on the situation.

“I’m told they’ve had some preliminary talks, exchange of numbers, had all that fun stuff as far as new deals,” the insider said on SportsCenter on Saturday. “They’ve got five-to-six weeks to see if they can come to an agreement before training camp.”

It’s worth noting that both the wide receiver and the cornerback have repeatedly expressed their desire to remain in New York for the long haul.

Gardner explained why he didn’t hold out

It’s not uncommon for contract disputes to reach a point where players choose not to report to training until their situation is resolved — a move that some view as justified, while others strongly disagree with the approach.

Gardner’s talent has already earned him two Pro Bowl selections, and he knows his ceiling in the NFL is still far from reached. That’s why the former Cincinnati Bearcat has remained committed to staying alongside his teammates — even without a contract extension in place just yet.

“I just wanted to show my teammates, my coaches how much I want to win. I want to be part of change in the organization,” the talented cornerback stated via Zack Rosenblatt.

Garrett Wilson’s current situation

One of the AFC’s top receivers reportedly questioned his stay with the Jets if Aaron Rodgers somehow remained with the team. Since that didn’t happen, the player has decided to continue betting on the Jets.

Since entering the league, he has recorded over 1,000 yards, so it wouldn’t be surprising to hear that he’s now aiming for a lucrative contract extension—one that reflects his production. It will be a matter of waiting to see how these developments unfold in the coming weeks.