Colts Place Fifth-Round Rookie on Season-Ending IR
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The Indianapolis Colts selected an unprecedented 12 players in the 2023 NFL draft. One of those 12 picks was California safety Daniel Scott with the No.158 pick in the fifth round.
Scott was an intriguing pick due to his versatility, athleticism, and ball-hawking instincts. He was also coming off arguably his best season in college with 85 tackles, three interceptions, and four passes defended in 12 games. He was drafted to be utilized in some potentially unique ways defensively and on special teams.
Unfortunately, the Colts announced Wednesday Scott has been placed on season-ending injured reserve as mandatory minicamp concludes. While the team did not disclose the injury, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Scott tore his ACL on the last play of OTA's last week.
This is truly unfortunate news to bear, especially coming off of the Isaiah Rodgers Sr. gambling investigation. While Scott may not be a cornerback, it still stings Indianapolis in multiple ways.
Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley might have been able to implement Scott into some interesting packages, but it is really special teams coordinator Brian Mason that will feel the pain most.
Scott was a special teams ace with the Golden Bears, playing a ridiculous 661 special teams snaps throughout his career. He was a player who was going to truly make his name on special teams, which is where multiple Colts starters have gotten their start.
With Scott on track to miss the 2023 campaign, it’s going to be imperative to make sure his rehabilitation and recovery are in order as soon as possible. It’s a harsh blow to a team that has young and exuberant talent galore.
With a league that is full of injuries and setbacks, the Colts will need to figure out how to fill the void of a young and talented player that won’t get to suit up.
