The Indianapolis Colts training camp injury bug has hit one of the team’s most indispensable players. Star cornerback Kenny Moore II left Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, adding another setback to an already depleted cornerback group.
While the early word from ESPN’s Stephen Holder is that Moore’s injury “is not a major injury,” the lack of a timeline and “murky” details have left fans and coaches holding their breath. For a team whose defensive scheme under new coordinator Lou Anarumo depends heavily on strong cornerback play, Moore’s health is crucial.
A Secondary in Crisis
GettyKenny Moore II added to Colts growing injury list.
Moore’s injury is just the latest in a troubling trend for the Indianapolis Colts defensive backfield. Jaylon Jones (hamstring) and JuJu Brents (hamstring) are both sidelined with no clear return date. While rookie Justin Walley is already out for the 2025 season after tearing his ACL during a joint practice with the Ravens.
That leaves Charvarius Ward, Samuel Womack III, Alex Johnson, and Johnathan Edwards as the most prominent healthy corners on the roster, a far cry from the depth chart the Colts envisioned heading into camp.
If Moore is forced to miss any time, the drop off in slot coverage will be steep. Johnson is currently listed as his backup. However, replacing Moore’s veteran presence, playmaking ability, and communication skills in the middle of the field is no small task.
Why Moore Matters
Getty2021 Pro Bowler Kenny Moore is a ‘key piece’ for Colts defense.
Since joining the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Moore has been a cornerstone of Indianapolis’ defense. He has racked up 594 tackles, 10.0 sacks, four forced fumbles, 20 interceptions, 36 TFL’s, and 62 pass breakups.
Moore’s 2021 Pro Bowl season cemented his status as one of the NFL’s premier slot corners. Just last season, he put up three interceptions, seven pass breakups, a fumble recovery for a touchdown, and 78 tackles. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a defensive grade of 70.1 in 2024. With limiting opposing pass catchers to just 9.1 yards per reception.
Beyond the numbers, Kenny Moore’s durability has been a defining trait. He’s played over 1,000 defensive snaps in four of the last five seasons. And he’s been anchoring a secondary that has seen constant turnover around him.
The timing of Moore’s injury couldn’t be worse. This season is widely viewed as “playoffs or bust” in Indianapolis. And Anarumo’s debut campaign as defensive coordinator hinges on a smooth integration of his system. Without his top slot corner, that process becomes far more complicated.
Moore’s absence (even if short-term) would also put added pressure on the pass rush and safeties, forcing them to cover for a vulnerable cornerback group. And with other defensive contributors like safety Nick Cross (hip flexor) and defensive end Kwity Paye (groin) also nursing injuries, the margin for error is shrinking quickly.
For now, the Colts can take some comfort in the report that Moore’s knee injury doesn’t appear to be serious. But until a timeline is set and he returns to the field, Indianapolis’ secondary will remain a major question mark heading into the season.
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