Colts release cornerback Kenny Moore following his trade request

Colts Move On from Kenny Moore II

The Indianapolis Colts and Kenny Moore II have officially parted ways.

On Thursday, the Colts waived the former Pro Bowl cornerback following an agreement made back in April to pursue a trade. This change comes after Moore’s nine-year tenure with the team, during which his playing time significantly declined last season.

Moore, who missed three games due to an Achilles tendon issue, only started seven games—marking the fewest he’s had since breaking into the league as an undrafted free agent from Valdosta State.

“I have a lot of respect for Kenny, both personally and from an organizational standpoint, and I know the fans in Indianapolis do too,” said general manager Chris Ballard last month. “In the end, he felt it was time for a change. It wasn’t an easy decision, especially for someone who’s been such a key figure for both the team and the community. Our conversations were sometimes tough but also respectful.”

The Colts boosted their roster last November, trading for a player from the Jets and gaining two first-round picks along with wide receiver AD Mitchell. This likely affected Moore’s position on the depth chart.

Throughout his career, the 30-year-old Moore accumulated impressive stats: 21 interceptions, four pick-sixes, 39 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, 20 quarterback hits, and six forced fumbles over 132 games and 111 starts. He made his only Pro Bowl appearance in 2021, snagging four interceptions and forcing a fumble.

In Moore’s absence, the Colts will probably look toward 2025 third-round pick Justin Worley. He had a strong training camp initially, but unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short due to an ACL tear during a joint practice with the Ravens.

As the Colts aim to bounce back from last season, they’ll need to improve significantly. After re-signing quarterback Daniel Jones to a two-year, $88 million contract, the team’s season took a downturn when he was sidelined with an Achilles injury. They ended up losing their last seven games and missed the playoffs despite a promising start of 8-2.