Full Breakdown
Colts Replace Kicker Michael Badgley with Blake Grupe
12/3/2025, 9:25:37 AM
Kicking Change After Missed Opportunities
The Indianapolis Colts have signed kicker Blake Grupe to their practice squad following the release of Michael Badgley. This decision comes after Badgley missed his third extra point in a critical 20-16 loss to the Houston Texans, a miss that significantly impacted the game and ultimately led to his dismissal. Badgley had been brought in earlier in the season to replace Spencer Shrader, who suffered a season-ending injury.
Badgley’s tenure with the Colts was marked by inconsistency. Although he successfully converted 10 of 11 field goals, his performance on extra points was troubling, finishing with 18 successful attempts out of 21. His latest miss not only cost the Colts a potential game-tying field goal but also forced the offense to attempt a fourth-down conversion instead, which they failed to complete.
Grupe's Background and Potential
Blake Grupe, previously with the New Orleans Saints, was signed after impressing during a workout that included several other kickers. Grupe has a mixed record, having made 18 of 26 field goals this season, but he has been perfect on extra points, converting all 15 attempts. His familiarity with Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason, who coached him at Notre Dame, is seen as a potential advantage in helping him find consistency.
Mason emphasized the need for a kicker who can handle pressure and convert scoring opportunities, stating, “We’re looking for somebody that’s experienced, that we know can handle pressure, that we know can be consistent.” Grupe’s career statistics show he has made 86 of 88 extra points, indicating reliability in that area.
Criticism of Badgley’s Performance
Badgley’s performance drew criticism from both fans and coaching staff. Head coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “Badge knows he’s got to make those kicks.” Despite his overall field goal success, the missed extra points were deemed inexcusable, especially for a team with playoff aspirations. The Colts have struggled with kicker stability since the decline of Adam Vinatieri, and Badgley’s inconsistency prompted the team to seek alternatives.
Official Statements and Responses
Following Badgley’s release, Mason reiterated the urgency of finding a reliable kicker, especially with the Colts tied for first place in the AFC South. “We’ve got to put ourselves in the best position to be successful,” he said. The Colts are aware that any new kicker will come with risks, particularly at this late stage in the season.
What's Next for the Colts
With Grupe now on the practice squad, the Colts have the option to elevate him to the active roster for upcoming games. They are set to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a crucial divisional matchup, where the performance of the kicking game will be under scrutiny. The Colts are hopeful that Grupe can provide the stability they have been missing as they push for a playoff spot.
The decision to replace Badgley reflects the Colts' commitment to addressing their special teams issues head-on, as they aim to secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2020.
