Full Breakdown
Colts Release Veteran Cornerback Kenny Moore II and Safety Nasir Adderley
5/7/2026, 11:57:16 PM
Roster Cuts Signal New Direction
On May 7, 2026 the Indianapolis Colts announced the release of cornerback Kenny Moore II and safety Nasir Adderley. Both moves were made after Moore’s trade request in April failed to produce a partner. The releases free up salary-cap space and clear roster spots for younger players acquired in the 2025 draft and free-agency signings.
Background: Moore’s Nine-Year Tenure
Moore entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017, was claimed off waivers by Indianapolis, and became the franchise’s primary nickel corner. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2021, recorded 21 interceptions (four returned for touchdowns), 649 tackles, 68 passes defensed, and 11.5 sacks over 132 games. Under defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, Moore thrived in zone schemes; a shift to Lou Anarumo’s man-coverage system in 2025 coincided with a drop to seven starts, 55 tackles and one interception. After the 2025 season, Moore requested a trade, citing a desire for a new environment.
Safety Nasir Adderley, a 2019 second-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers, retired after four seasons, then unretired in April 2026 to sign with the Colts. He had not played since 2022 and posted career totals of 232 tackles, two interceptions and 44 starts.
Key Figures
- Kenny Moore II – veteran cornerback, team captain, community leader.
- Chris Ballard – Colts general manager, orchestrated the releases.
- Lou Anarumo – defensive coordinator, whose scheme change affected Moore’s role.
- Justin Walley – 2025 third-round pick, projected to assume the nickel position.
- A.J. Haulcy – third-round safety drafted in 2025, expected to compete for the starting spot.
Timeline of Events
- Early April 2026 – Moore formally requests a trade.
- Mid-April 2026 – Colts sign safety Nasir Adderley after his three-year retirement.
- May 7, 2026 – Colts release Moore, Adderley, and waive linebacker John Bullock.
Statistics and Cap Implications
- Moore: 132 games, 111 starts, 21 interceptions, 649 tackles, 68 passes defensed, 11.5 sacks.
- Adderley: 44 starts, 232 tackles, 2 interceptions, 9 pass breakups (PFF).
- Release of Moore saves $7.06 million against the 2026 cap and leaves $6.05 million in dead money. Reported cap savings range from $7 million to $9.9 million depending on pre-June 1 designation.
Official Statements & Responses
The Colts’ press release emphasized that Moore’s departure creates “additional $7 million in cap space” while acknowledging his “contributions as a leader on and off the field.” Regarding Adderley, the team noted a “reduced need at safety after selecting A.J. Haulcy in the third round and the return of Hunter Wohler.” General manager Ballard reiterated respect for Moore, stating the decision was “mutually agreed” and aligned with the organization’s long-term plan.
Criticism & Scheme Fit Concerns
Analysts highlighted Moore’s diminished production under Anarumo’s man-coverage emphasis and his age (31 in 2026) as primary factors. The $9.49 million base salary for the final year of his contract was also cited as a cap-heavy commitment for a player whose snap count had declined.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact cap savings: Reuters and ESPN list $7.06 million, while other outlets cite a rounded $7 million or a broader $7–9.9 million range. The timing of the release (pre- versus post-June 1) is not uniformly reported, leaving the precise dead-money impact ambiguous.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's all good. It's all love,” — Kenny Moore II, cornerback
- “I think very highly of Kenny, not only me personally, but organizationally, and I know the city feels the same way,” — Chris Ballard, general manager
- “I’ve been here grinding six days a week, continue to grind the same way for the next couple months, and by the time the fall, back on the turf, I’ll be ready to go,” — Justin Walley, cornerback
- “It feels like I’ve gained little brothers and sisters,” — Kenny Moore II, speaking to the NFL Players Association
What’s Next for Indianapolis
The Colts are expected to elevate rookie Justin Walley to the nickel role and rely on A.J. Haulcy and Hunter Wohler to shape the safety group. Moore enters free agency; NFL outlets project interest from the Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, and San Francisco 49ers, teams seeking a veteran slot corner with proven play-making ability.
