Indianapolis Colts running back Salvon Ahmed suffered a severe right leg injury during Sunday's training camp practice, casting a pall over the team's preparations for the upcoming season. The injury occurred late in practice when Ahmed was taken down by safety Trey Washington while running the ball in the end zone.
According to reports, Washington executed a hip-drop tackle, a technique that has been banned by the NFL due to its high risk of causing injuries. Ahmed reportedly screamed out in pain after the tackle, immediately clutching his leg. The severity of the injury was evident as players immediately took a knee, and trainers rushed to immobilize Ahmed's lower leg. He was subsequently placed on a stretcher and carted off the field to a local hospital for further evaluation and X-rays.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen addressed the media after practice, expressing his concern for Ahmed and emphasizing that the team does not encourage hip-drop tackles. He acknowledged that Washington was "down in the dumps" about the incident and did not believe the safety intentionally tried to injure Ahmed. Steichen noted the team was trying to create an edge, especially amongst the developmental players who will need to tackle during the pre-season.
The injury occurred during a "live" portion of practice, where tackling was permitted, specifically designed for developmental players. This was only the second day that linebacker Zaire Franklin, who is recovering from off-season ankle surgery, was on the field. Franklin expressed his disappointment for Ahmed, who he knew from their time in Seattle. Franklin recognized the inherent risks of the game but also acknowledged the emotional impact on the team.
Ahmed's injury is a significant blow to the Colts' running back depth. The five-year veteran was competing for a roster spot after spending last season on Indy's practice squad. He originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2020 and spent four seasons with the Miami Dolphins, appearing in 38 games and recording 593 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He also added 40 receptions for 274 yards and another score. Ahmed was with the Broncos practice squad before joining the Colts in October 2024 and signing a reserve/futures contract in January.
The Colts briefly stopped practice after the injury to huddle before finishing the final practice period. The team's focus now shifts to supporting Ahmed and preparing for the possibility of being without him for an extended period. The incident also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in football, even in a controlled practice environment, and the importance of adhering to rules designed to protect player safety.
