Spencer Shrader has seized the Colts’ kicking competition, handling virtually all Week 2 preseason kicks and earning the backing of special teams coach Brian Mason after an 87% camp clip to Maddux Trujillo’s 78%. Indianapolis is lining Shrader up for regular-season work, using the preseason as the proving ground for carryover accuracy and long-range potential.

The sample is small and includes a rookie who has bounced between teams in 2024, but the trajectory looks favorable: Shrader’s improved performance through training camp, steady reps in practice, and a strong Week 2 signal place him as the favorite to win the job. Trujillo’s lone preseason point, contrasted with Shrader’s multi-team persistence and consistency, adds context but not enough to overturn the trend from the Colts’ view.

For fantasy managers, Shrader’s status as the likely Week 1 kicker could shift Colts scoring expectations if he maintains regular-season kicks, especially with the potential long-range opportunities. Yet the caveat remains: Shrader has yet to log a regular-season 50-yard attempt, so the ceiling is intriguing but not guaranteed. Monitoring Week 2 preseason and early regular-season reps will be key for roster decisions.

The Indianapolis Colts' kicking competition is heating up as Spencer Shrader and Maddux Trujillo demonstrate their skills during recent training camp practices. Shrader started slow, making only 4 out of 6 attempts last Friday, including misses from over 50 yards. However, he rebounded with a perfect 6-for-6 performance on Monday, showing significant improvement. Trujillo matched his success on Tuesday, also going 6-for-6, indicating a tight contest for the starting job.

The Colts' coaching staff is closely monitoring both kickers, with evaluations based on performances during team drills and joint practices, especially in preseason games, where the pressure will be higher. Special teams coordinator Brian Mason emphasized the importance of these opportunities for both players to showcase their abilities under real-game conditions.

The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for a noteworthy competition at kicker during training camp, alongside the more publicized quarterback battle. Special teams coordinator Brian Mason emphasized the importance of live practice settings to evaluate Spencer Shrader and undrafted rookie Maddux Trujillo. Shrader may have a slight edge due to his NFL experience, but both kickers will be closely monitored as they attempt to secure the lone roster spot available.

After the recent minicamp, the Indianapolis Colts are evaluating their special teams unit, with particular focus on the kicker position. The team has decided to move on from veteran Matt Gay in favor of Spencer Shrader, a decision grounded in the confidence the organization has in his performance. Despite a rocky start in his career, Shrader managed to impress during his time with multiple teams last season, successfully converting all his field goal attempts and extra points.

General Manager Chris Ballard emphasized Shrader's consistent performance, especially considering the challenges of adapting to different teams and holders. The Colts are now looking forward to how he develops as their primary kicker in upcoming games.

The competition for the Indianapolis Colts' kicking job is heating up, featuring veterans and rookies alike. Spencer Shrader, who has prior experience in the league, is currently leading the race. However, Maddux Trujillo, an undrafted rookie from Temple, is not backing down. Trujillo had an impressive college career, converting all 21 extra-point attempts and achieving a solid field goal percentage, particularly from longer distances. Special teams coordinator Brian Mason emphasizes the open nature of this competition, making it clear that all bets are off as both kickers push to secure their position for the upcoming season.