The Indianapolis Colts are facing a significant setback early in the preseason following a serious injury to special teams coordinator Brian Mason. The incident occurred during the final play of Thursday's preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, leaving the team to navigate the remainder of their schedule without a key member of their coaching staff.
Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed the injury following the 13-13 tie but did not disclose specific medical details at the time. However, league sources have indicated that Mason is believed to have suffered multiple torn ligaments in his knee. The injury took place while Mason was observing a Hail Mary attempt by quarterback Riley Leonard. As the play concluded, a collision between a Colts player and a Patriots player spilled over onto the sidelines, resulting in Mason being knocked to the ground.
Mason, who has nearly two decades of coaching experience, is currently in his fourth season leading the Colts' special teams unit. Under his guidance, the unit has been highly effective, ranking second in the NFL in kickoff return average (28.8) and maintaining the league's lowest opponent punt return average at 6.3 yards. The coordinator has since returned to Indianapolis to begin his recovery process.
As the Colts prepare for their upcoming preseason games against the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 22 and the Detroit Lions on Aug. 29, the organization will have to adjust its coaching operations. The team is looking ahead to their regular-season opener against the Baltimore Ravens on Sept. 13, hoping to improve upon last season's 8-9 finish. Despite high expectations for the AFC South, the team faces skepticism from some analysts and betting markets regarding their playoff potential.