flag
back Back
Vikings won't have to worry about the Colts' star defender in Week 7

The Minnesota Vikings' offense looks to continue improving after their bye week as they face a reeling Indianapolis Colts squad. Entering Week 6, the Colts' defense ranks 24th in yards allowed and is tied for 23rd in EPA/play allowed. They will also be shorthanded, with one of their top defenders sidelined on Sunday.

Cornerback Sauce Gardner, who Indianapolis acquired in a trade with the New York Jets last November, will be "week-to-week" with a calf strain, Ian Rapaport reported on Monday.

Gardner, the fourth overall pick in the 2022 draft, was a first-team All-Pro in each of his first two years. This season, he has allowed 11 catches for 226 yards and two touchdowns on 18 targets, but he is just one of many Indianapolis defenders struggling.

His absence will be felt as the Vikings are expected to have Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson all back on the field together for the first time since the first drive of their Week 3 game at Tampa Bay. The Colts' injury report, meanwhile, extends beyond Gardner, with nickel corner Justin Walley (knee) missing practice Wednesday.

Minnesota spent the bye week getting healthy. Indianapolis, which fired general manager Chris Ballard on Monday, is trying to deal with an injured roster.

You may like

Patriots continue climbing in ESPN's Week 7 NFL power rankings

aol.com 1 hour ago

4 Trade Partners, Targets for Seahawks Ahead of Deadline

si.com 2 hours ago

Best College Football Transfers of 2026: 21 Portal Additions Making Major Impact

si.com 46 minutes ago

Cardinals Linked to 3 Different QBs in Latest NFL Mock Drafts

si.com 1 hour ago

FSU’s highest-graded offensive players through seven games

aol.com 1 hour ago

Boise State gets healthy during bye week

si.com 24 minutes ago

Early SEC availability report for Auburn's SEC game vs. LSU revealed

aol.com 1 hour ago

Eagles Reportedly Get Auspicious Saquon Barkley Injury Update

foxsports.com 25 minutes ago