Colts Sign Hardman and Morstead to Practice Squad
Indianapolis adds veteran depth following a coaching staff shakeup and injuries.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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The Indianapolis Colts have signed three-time Super Bowl champion Mecole Hardman and veteran punter Thomas Morstead to their practice squad. These roster moves follow the firing of General Manager Chris Ballard and injuries sustained in Sunday's game.
Why it matters
The team acted to bolster its roster after starting punter Rigoberto Sanchez suffered a foot injury during the game against Tennessee. These signings provide immediate veteran depth as the organization navigates a transition period following the departure of its general manager.
Punter Thomas Morstead averaged 43.6 yards on 44 total punts across 17 games last season. Wide receiver Mecole Hardman brings experience from his three Super Bowl championship seasons.
The players
Mecole Hardman
He is an experienced wide receiver and a three-time Super Bowl champion.
Thomas Morstead
He is a veteran punter who played 17 games in the previous season.
Chris Ballard
He is the former General Manager of the Indianapolis Colts who was fired on October 19, 2026.
Rigoberto Sanchez
He is a punter for the Indianapolis Colts who suffered a foot injury during a game.
The details
Rigoberto Sanchez left the game against Tennessee after a blocked punt resulted in a foot injury, prompting the addition of Morstead. The team also added Hardman, who was released by the Buffalo Bills in August after appearing in two games last season.
Timeline
August 2026: Buffalo Bills released Mecole Hardman.
October 19, 2026: Rigoberto Sanchez injured his foot against Tennessee.
October 19, 2026: The Colts fired General Manager Chris Ballard.
Season Trajectory
These roster moves follow the 2026 NFL season's practice squad eligibility rules to provide immediate injury coverage. The adjustments occur as the organization seeks to stabilize following a mid-season front office departure.
Fantasy managers and bettors should monitor the availability of Rigoberto Sanchez, as the team has now added punting depth. These roster changes arrive just ahead of the team's Week 7 game against the Vikings.
The takeaway
Front office turnover combined with injuries often leads teams to lean heavily on experienced practice squad veterans. Keeping track of injury reports and practice squad elevations is essential for understanding week-to-week roster stability.
What happens next
The Colts are scheduled to face the Vikings in their next matchup during Week 7.
Further reading
For more on the current team status, visit Indianapolis Football.
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Should your local sports team prioritize veteran experience to replace injured starters mid-season?
