Sauce Gardner Speaks Out About His Calf Injury After Texans Loss

Sauce Gardner spoke out about his leg injury after leaving the Indianapolis Colts’ 20-16 loss to the Houston Texans on December 1 in Indianapolis. The star cornerback exited early with a non-contact calf issue and discussed what he felt moments after going down. Gardner shared that he believes the injury is a strain and not something more severe.

The cornerback left the game in the first quarter. He was seen using crutches afterward, though he was able to put some weight on his left leg. Colts medical staff continued evaluations and Gardner said an MRI was planned for Sunday night.

What Sauce Gardner Said About His Injury

Gardner said he felt a sudden pain at the top of his calf while trying to stay with Houston tight end Cade Stover on the second play of the game. He told reporters it felt like “getting shot in the calf,” a description often associated with Achilles scares, but he did not believe it was a rupture. He emphasized that the pain was higher than the Achilles area and did not match the symptoms of a major tear.

Indianapolis doctors helped Gardner off the field immediately. He initially could not put weight on the leg but was later able to stand with support. He watched most of the game from the sideline with a walking boot. According to coverage from outlets such as the Associated Press, calf strains can create concern because several athletes have suffered Achilles injuries after similar early symptoms.

The Colts traded significant assets for Gardner, including two first-round picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. Indianapolis expected Gardner to form a top-tier cornerback duo with Charvarius Ward. His absence forced the Colts to rotate Jaylon Jones and Mekhi Blackmon, and Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud finished the game with 276 passing yards.

How Gardner’s Injury Could Affect the Colts

If Gardner misses time, Indianapolis may need to reduce its man-to-man coverage approach. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo would have to shift to matchup-based coverage or more help over the top. This change could impact how the team defends high-powered offenses in the weeks ahead.

Gardner said he was looking forward to his first home game as a Colt, making the early exit frustrating. He described the moment as disappointing but noted that injuries are part of football. The Colts expect more clarity once MRI results are reviewed on Monday.

Sauce Gardner’s comments give optimism about avoiding the worst-case scenario. The Colts now wait for MRI confirmation while adjusting their defensive approach in the short term.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What injury did Sauce Gardner describe?

He described a high calf strain. He said it felt sudden but did not match Achilles symptoms.

Q2: Did Sauce Gardner believe it was an Achilles tear?

No. He said the pain was higher on the calf and did not feel like an Achilles injury.

Q3: Will Gardner get an MRI?

Yes. He said the MRI was planned for Sunday night. Full evaluation details often come the next day.

Q4: How did Gardner leave the stadium?

He used crutches but could put some weight on his left leg. He also wore a walking boot.

Q5: How did the Colts adjust without him?

They used Jaylon Jones and Mekhi Blackmon at cornerback. Houston moved the ball for 276 passing yards.