The Indianapolis Colts made a practice squad move at wide receiver on Friday after an injury to veteran pass-catcher KJ Hamler, announcing that they signed their former undrafted free agent Ethan Fernea to replace Hamler, who was placed on the practice squad injured list.
It’s a bit of a letdown that Hamler is now on the injured list, as some thought he could have an interesting role in head coach Shane Steichen’s offense if given the opportunity.
However, it opens up another shot for former UCLA Bruin Fernea, who has been on the Colts practice squad off-and-on over the last two years.
While he has no statistics to showcase, Fernea has shown sparks of big-play ability downfield during practice and training camp.
He will undoubtedly help push the defensive backs and fellow receivers on the practice squad to be at their best as Indy tries to carve out a playoff spot.
Transactions like these don’t light up a news feed, but with how important practice/depth pieces are, especially at skill positions, it makes this move to bring back Fernea an important one for the Colts, as he brings familiarity, competitive spirit, and desire to succeed to the team.
Moss, with 672 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 141 carries, has been a key contributor for the Colts.
His standout performance came in a previous matchup against the Tennessee Titans on October 8, where he rushed for 165 yards and two touchdowns in a 23-16 victory.
Indianapolis offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter expresses confidence in Moss’s capabilities, emphasizing his versatility and reliability.
While the Colts deal with injuries to key players, including Taylor and rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, veteran Gardner Minshew has stepped in effectively, throwing for 1,972 yards and eight touchdowns.
The team aims to build on its three-game winning streak and secure a playoff berth in a competitive AFC.
On the Titans’ side, with a 4-7 record, the team is mathematically alive for a wild-card spot but faces an uphill battle.
