Why Michael Badgley is kicking for the Colts and not Spencer Shrader

Billy Heyen

Why Michael Badgley is kicking for the Colts and not Spencer Shrader image

For the past few weeks, the Indianapolis Colts have had a new kicker.

Michael Badgley is currently handling the placekicking duties in Indy while Spencer Shrader is out.

This scenario could affect games. Despite their 7-1 record, the Colts haven't faced many close matchups to date.

When games become close, kicking becomes crucial. Badgley must be ready to perform.

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The Colts are opting for Michael Badgley to handle kicking duties over Spencer Shrader.

Shrader's injury means Badgley is currently the Colts' kicker.

On October 5th, Shrader sustained a hit during an extra point attempt. This impact to his right knee resulted in tears to his ACL and MCL.

Badgley has handled kicking duties for Indianapolis in the three weeks that followed.

So far, Badgley has gone:

  • 1-1 FG, 4-4 XP
  • 1-1 FG, 3-4 XP
  • 1-1 FG, 5-5 XP

His long make thus far has been just 45 yards.

Badgley, who is 30, has previously played in the NFL for the Chargers, Lions, Bears, and Titans.

This marks his second period with The Colts, having previously kicked in 12 games for Indianapolis during 2021.

And with Shrader out for the year, Badgley is in control of his own kicking future, at least until this season ends, as long as he does his job.

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Billy Heyen

Billy Heyen is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is a 2019 graduate of Syracuse University who has written about many sports and fantasy sports for The Sporting News. Sports reporting work has also appeared in a number of newspapers, including the Sandusky Register and Rochester Democrat & Chronicle