The Indianapolis Colts’ months-long kicking competition is over.
Now Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader can only wait for the verdict.
Both kickers delivered in Saturday’s 25-16 preseason loss to the Detroit Lions. Grupe made field goals from 46 and 36 yards in the first half, while Shrader drilled his only opportunity from 60 yards after halftime, per the Colts’ game recap.
“I definitely feel confident that I put my best foot forward, and now you just sit and wait,” Grupe said afterward in a video shared by WISH-TV.
Shrader struck a similar tone following his preseason finish, in which he consistently produced in game situations.
“Training camp is always about the battle of the mind, battling yourself every single day, day in and day out,” Shrader
said. “I’m glad and I’m proud that I’ve gotten to the point where I feel like I’ve turned the corner.”
"Now you just sit and wait"
— WISH-TV News (@WISHNews8) August 29, 2026
A big decision for #Colts head coach Shane Steichen as Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader each hope to be named the team's starting kicker. Which player do you think should earn the spot? pic.twitter.com/nzb0nIBOph
Shrader entered Saturday a perfect 4-for-4 on preseason field goals, including three makes from at least 48 yards. Grupe, on the other hand, had been stronger during portions of practice, underscoring why special teams coordinator Brian Mason previously said the Colts “can’t go wrong” with either kicker.
That said, Mason also mentioned that in-game kicks will "carry the most weight" in the final decision-making process.
Their auditions are done, and the final call will determine which kicker opens the regular season on the roster.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts kickers Blake Grupe, Spencer Shrader react after final battle
