Spencer Shrader just capped off a comeback story for the ages this past Saturday, a reversal of fortune that seemed absolutely impossible before preseason even kicked off. We’re talking about a guy coming off an ACL tear here, folks! But Shrader’s been looking like his old self, or even better, for three weeks now. When the Colts’ third-string offense stalled out at midfield in the third quarter of their 25-16 preseason loss to the Lions, you could just feel it coming. Shrader was going to get his shot from way downtown.
The Kick That Shook the Preseason
You gotta respect the man’s preparation. As the on-field action paused for an injury, Shrader didn’t just stand there. Nope. He trotted right over to the team’s kicking net on the sideline, got in one more practice swing with that powerful right leg. Talk about focus! He literally told reporters, “I kind of read the situation, felt like I had enough time to go over and get a practice kick in, kind of reset mentally and then go out there and do my routine.” That’s the mindset of a pro right there, someone who knows exactly what it takes to perform under pressure. And perform he did!
He lined up for that 60-yard field goal, and when he launched it, that ball just *flew*. It looked almost routine for him, ripping through the middle of the uprights with a power that’d make you think he was just doing chip shots. This wasn’t just some lucky boot either. This was his *second* 60-yard kick of the entire preseason. Think about that for a second! Two bombs from midfield, in games that actually matter for roster spots. He’s been absolutely automatic, perfect five for five on field goals in the preseason so far, and get this: not a single one of those kicks was shorter than 46 yards. That’s serious range and serious consistency, especially when you consider what he’s been through.
From ACL Tear to Absolute Cannon
Colts head coach Shane Steichen didn’t mince words about it either. He knows the grind. “I think there’s a lot of appreciation, coming off an ACL, to be where he’s at,” Steichen said. “To kick the 60-yarder today was huge.” Huge isn’t even the half of it, coach. This is the stuff legends are made of. To battle back from an ACL tear, to regain that kind of power and precision, and then to showcase it not once, but twice, with 60-yard blasts in preseason games? That’s not just making a case for a job; that’s kicking the door down and demanding it.
So, what’s next for Shrader? With a leg like that and a comeback story that just won’t quit, every kick from here on out is a massive statement. He’s not just a kicker; he’s a symbol of resilience. The preseason’s wrapping up, and his performance has absolutely put him on the map. You just gotta wonder if this incredible story ends with him owning that job when the regular season starts. Keep that right leg ready, Spencer, because the league is definitely watching now!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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