Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts

As the Indianapolis Colts navigate the grueling stretch of the NFL season—with a playoff spot on the line, a rash of injuries to starters, and back-to-back divisional games—one group has been thrust into the spotlight: the team’s reserves. These backup players, once relegated to practice squads or special teams duty, are now being tested by some of the toughest challenges of the season, forced to step into critical roles with little preparation. Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts isn’t just about filling roster spots; it’s about how these unsung players are adapting, competing, and proving they have the talent and resilience to keep the Colts’ playoff push on track. For a team already dealing with setbacks, the reserves’ ability to rise to the occasion has become a make-or-break factor in their pursuit of the AFC South title.

Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts begins with the most pressing challenge: injuries to key offensive starters, which have forced reserves into the lineup. When starting left guard Quenton Nelson (knee) and running back Jonathan Taylor (ankle) were sidelined in Week 13, backup guard Blake Freeland and running back Deon Jackson were suddenly thrust into full-time roles. Freeland, a rookie fourth-round pick, faced the daunting task of blocking elite defensive tackles like the Jacksonville Jaguars’ DaVon Hamilton—yet he held his own, allowing just one pressure in 65 snaps in his first start. Jackson, a third-year player who had averaged just 8 carries per game before Taylor’s injury, stepped up with 112 rushing yards and a touchdown in Week 14, including a 35-yard run that set up the game-winning field goal. “No one expects reserves to perform like starters overnight, but Blake and Deon have done exactly that,” said Colts offensive line coach Chris Strausser. “They’ve faced every challenge thrown at them—from learning new plays on short notice to going up against Pro Bowl-caliber players—and they’ve responded with poise. That’s the mark of a resilient reserve group.”

Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts delves into the defensive reserves, who have been tested by injuries to starters and the need to shut down high-powered offenses. When starting safety Julian Blackmon (hamstring) and defensive end Kwity Paye (shoulder) missed two games in late November, backup safety Rodney Thomas II and defensive end Tyquan Lewis were called upon to fill the gaps. Thomas, a second-year player, recorded 15 tackles, 2 pass breakups, and a crucial interception in the end zone against the Tennessee Titans—his first career pick—while Lewis, a sixth-year veteran, tallied 2 sacks and 4 quarterback hits in the same stretch. What made their performances even more impressive was their ability to adapt to different roles: Thomas shifted between free safety and strong safety depending on the formation, while Lewis lined up both on the edge and inside to confuse opposing offensive lines. “Our defensive reserves have been asked to do more than just back up starters—they’ve been asked to be playmakers,” said Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley. “Rodney and Tyquan didn’t just fill in; they changed the outcome of games. That’s what you need from reserves when injuries hit—players who can turn challenges into opportunities.”

Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts highlights how the Indianapolis Colts’ special teams reserves have faced unique challenges, from handling multiple roles to performing in high-pressure moments. With starting kick returner Isaiah Rodgers Sr. suspended for the season, backup wide receiver Ashton Dulin has taken over kickoff and punt return duties—tasks he hadn’t practiced regularly since training camp. In Week 15, Dulin returned a punt 42 yards to set up a Colts touchdown, and he’s averaged 21.5 yards per kickoff return over the last three games—well above the league average of 20.1 yards. Meanwhile, backup long snapper Luke Rhodes (filling in for an injured Matt Overton) has been perfect on all 32 of his snaps, including a critical extra point in overtime against the Houston Texans. “Special teams reserves are often the most versatile players on the team—they have to be ready to do anything, at any time,” said special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone. “Ashton and Luke have been thrown into roles they didn’t expect, and they’ve excelled because they’re willing to put in the work. The Indianapolis Colts’ special teams unit doesn’t skip a beat when reserves step in, and that’s a testament to their preparation and work ethic.”

Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts explores the mental challenges reserves face, from staying ready for unexpected opportunities to dealing with the pressure of performing in front of 70,000 fans. Backup quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who has been inactive for most games this season but was called upon to relieve Gardner Minshew in a Week 16 game against the Los Angeles Rams, admitted that staying mentally sharp while on the bench is one of the hardest parts of being a reserve. “You have to study the playbook like you’re the starter, even if you don’t get any snaps,” Ehlinger said. “When the coach calls your name, you don’t have time to second-guess—you have to be ready to go.” To help reserves stay prepared, the Colts’ coaching staff holds extra film sessions for backups, runs “scout team” drills that simulate game scenarios, and even has reserves practice with the starting unit once a week. “Mental preparation is just as important as physical talent for reserves,” said Colts head coach Shane Steichen. “The Indianapolis Colts don’t treat reserves like second-class players—we invest in their development because we know they’ll be needed. When challenges arise, their mental readiness is what separates good reserves from great ones.”

Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts wraps up with how the reserves’ ability to overcome challenges has strengthened the Colts as a team—and what it means for their playoff prospects. By stepping up when starters were injured, adapting to new roles, and performing in high-pressure moments, the reserves have proven they’re more than just backups—they’re valuable contributors to the Colts’ success. This depth has given the Colts a competitive edge: while other teams have faltered under injury crises, the Colts have kept winning, thanks in large part to their reserve players. “Our reserves aren’t just filling gaps—they’re making us a better team,” Steichen said. “They’ve shown that we have talent and depth at every position, and that gives us confidence going into the playoffs. The Indianapolis Colts’ success this season isn’t just about our starters; it’s about the entire roster—every player, whether they’re a Pro Bowler or a practice squad call-up—being ready to contribute.” As the Colts head into the final week of the regular season, the reserves remain a key asset. They’ve faced tough challenges and passed every test, and in doing so, they’ve become an integral part of the Colts’ quest for a championship. Tough Challenges Test Reserves of the Indianapolis Colts isn’t just a story about backup players—it’s a story about a team that’s stronger because of its depth, and resilient because of its unsung heroes.