Aug 29, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner (1) during warmups before the game against the Detroit Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
The NFL trade deadline could become more complicated for the Indianapolis Colts after cornerback Sauce Gardner suffered a calf injury that may affect his availability and potential trade value.
More #Colts news: Pro Bowl CB Sauce Garder, who was unable to finish Sunday’s loss to the #Titans, has a mild calf strain that makes him week-to-week, sources say after the MRI. Gardner is expected to miss some time, but not an extended period. https://t.co/Kli7wJRgwI
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 19, 2026
According to reports, Gardner has been diagnosed with a mild calf strain and is considered week-to-week after undergoing an MRI. The injury occurred during the third quarter of Indianapolis’ 26-20 loss to the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, creating uncertainty about when the star defensive back will return.
With the Colts sitting at 2-4, the team could consider moving valuable players before the trade deadline. However, Gardner’s latest injury could make finding a suitable trade partner more difficult.
MORE: NFL contenders & pretenders after Week 6
Gardner’s injury creates trade deadline questions
Oct 11, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner (1) after a catch in the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Gardner, 25, was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 after an outstanding start to his professional career. His reputation as a premier cornerback made him a significant acquisition for Indianapolis last season.
Last year, the Colts sent two first-round picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell to the New York Jets in exchange for Gardner, demonstrating how highly the organization valued his abilities.
However, the investment has yet to deliver the results Indianapolis hoped for. Through six games this season, Gardner has recorded 17 total tackles, including 13 solo tackles, as the Colts have struggled to find consistency.
The latest injury is particularly concerning because Gardner also dealt with problems involving the same calf last season, suffering injuries in Weeks 13 and 17.
Although the current strain is considered mild, the week-to-week designation leaves questions about his recovery timeline. Any potential suitor would likely want clarity regarding his health before committing significant trade assets to acquire him.
If Indianapolis decides to sell players before the deadline, Gardner could attract interest because of his age, experience and defensive credentials. Nevertheless, his injury could complicate negotiations and potentially limit the offers available to the Colts.
MORE: 3 NFL teams that should be worried after Week 6
Colts face tough test without their star cornerback
Sep 27, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (14) makes a catch over Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner (1) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Indianapolis will have to move forward without Gardner when it faces the undefeated Minnesota Vikings in Week 7 on Sunday.
Minnesota enters the matchup with a 5-0 record, presenting a difficult challenge for a Colts defense already dealing with uncertainty surrounding one of its most important players.
The coming weeks could determine whether Indianapolis attempts to strengthen its roster or shifts its focus toward future seasons.
For Gardner, a successful recovery will be crucial regardless of whether he remains with the Colts beyond the trade deadline. His health could ultimately play a significant role in shaping both his immediate future and Indianapolis’ plans moving forward.