Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner was listed as a non-participant in the team’s Wednesday walkthrough ahead of Sunday’s home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Colts coach Shane Steichen was “hopeful” Gardner could return this week after missing the last three games with a calf strain. However, Gardner would have been out if there was a full practice Wednesday.
Gardner has played just three games with Indianapolis since the Colts sent two first-round picks to the New York Jets to acquire him on Nov. 4. In those three games, he has 13 tackles and two pass breakups.
Over four seasons, the two-time Pro Bowler and fourth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft has started all 58 games he has played with 214 tackles, three interceptions, 48 pass breakups and a forced fumble.
Additionally, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (neck) was a non-participant after returning from injured reserve in Monday’s loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Running back Tyler Goodson (ankle), wide receiver Anthony Gould (foot), tight end Drew Ogletree (neck), center Tanor Bortolini (concussion), guard Dalton Tucker (shoulder) and defensive end JT Tuimoloau (oblique) also sat out, while reserve quarterback Anthony Richardson (eye) was limited.
Indianapolis (8-7) has lost five straight games and six of seven since its 7-1 start and would be eliminated from playoff contention with a loss to the Jaguars.
