The controversial hip drop tackle that was banned by the NFL last year has led to a significant injury for the Colts. Running back Salvon Ahmed is out for the season following a severe ankle injury he sustained during practice last Sunday, which has necessitated his placement on injured reserve.
This injury occurred during a live tackling drill when Safety Tray Washington executed a hip drop tackle.
Colts head coach Schoen Steichen expressed his concerns about such tackles, stating, “I don’t want to see it happen.” He acknowledged that while they don’t endorse hip drop tackles, the team is working to improve its edge during training camp, particularly in the preseason.
In light of Ahmed’s injury, the Colts have signed former Dolphins running back Nate Noel to bolster their roster. Noel is now competing for a backup position behind starter Jonathan Taylor, alongside rookie DJ Giddens and seasoned players Khalil Herbert and Tyler Goodson.
The scene during Ahmed’s injury was intense, with teammates rallying around him as he was taken off the field on a stretcher, and the atmosphere reportedly fell silent as he voiced his pain.
Steichen is pushing for a more rigorous training camp this year, which incorporates live tackling, although this approach carries risks. “Training camp is where you want to create the edge, toughness and identity for your football team,” he explained.
Ahmed had joined the Colts’ practice squad last October and signed a reserve/futures contract in January after previously playing with the Dolphins.
The Colts are also dealing with injuries to quarterback Anthony Richardson, who dislocated his pinky in the opening game of the preseason. Despite this setback, there’s a chance he could return to practice soon.
In the broader context, sportsbooks are anticipating that Richardson will outperform former Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in his first opportunity as a starter.
