Why Michael Badgley is kicking for the Colts and not Spencer Shrader

For the past few weeks, the Indianapolis Colts have had a new kicker.

Michael Badgley is holding down the placekicking gig in Indy for Spencer Shrader.

It's the kind of situation that could impact games. The Colts are 7-1, but they haven't had a lot of close contests so far.

When the games get tight, kicking will matter. Badgley will have to be up for the task.

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Why is Michael Badgley kicking for the Colts and not Spencer Shrader?

Badgley is the Colts' kicker because Shrader is injured.

Shrader was hit on an extra point attempt on Oct. 5. The collision to his right knee tore his ACL and MCL.

Badgley has kicked in the three subsequent weeks for Indianapolis.

So far, Badgley has gone:

• 1-1 FG, 4-4 XP
• 1-1 FG, 3-4 XP
• 1-1 FG, 5-5 XP

His long make thus far has been just 45 yards.

Badgley, 30, has also played in the NFL for the Chargers, Lions, Bears and Titans.

This is his second stint with the Colts, after kicking in 12 games for Indianapolis in 2021.

And with Shrader out for the year, Badgley is in control of his own kicking future, at least until this season ends, as long as he does his job.

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