Colts' kicking battle between Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader has a leader

In the early stages of training camp, a clear leader is emerging in the Colts' battle for the kicking position between rookie Blake Grupe and veteran Spencer Shrader. Grupe has made 27 of 30 field goal attempts in the first two weeks of practice, while Shrader stands at 20 of 30. Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason emphasized that they are not judging who the best kicker currently is, but rather who will be the best through the regular season, capable of scoring points and securing wins for the team.

Shrader, who returned to Indianapolis in 2025 after overcoming a major injury, is kicking with an injury-related disadvantage. His struggles in live practice situations have been more pronounced, missing four kicks in one recent session, all from 50 yards or longer. Grupe, on the other hand, has been more consistent, making 30 of 30 field goal attempts in practice thus far.

While Grupe doesn't have the same powerful leg as Shrader, his consistency and lack of missed kicks have put him in a strong position. However, Shrader still has time to refine his mechanics and rhythm, aiming to return to the level of performance that won him the kicking job last season. The competition will intensify at the next phase of the preseason, where both kickers will have to prove themselves in live situations.