WESTFIELD, Ind. — In a concerning incident during a live-tackling session at training camp, veteran Colts running back Salvon Ahmed sustained a severe ankle injury. The injury occurred when undrafted free agent Trey Washington made a hip-drop tackle as Ahmed was rushing towards the goal line. The immediate reaction from the team was one of alarm; practice was halted as medical personnel quickly assessed Ahmed, placing him in an air cast before he was carted off the field.
As Ahmed received attention, his teammates showed solidarity, surrounding him with prayers and support. Free safety Camryn Bynum led a moment of prayer, while several players, including star running back Jonathan Taylor, expressed their concern for their teammate. “We’re all hurting. We all love Salvon. Salvon’s a great guy in the building,” said middle linebacker Zaire Franklin, highlighting the bond within the team.
Following the injury, Colts head coach Shane Steichen briefly contemplated ending practice but ultimately decided to continue with the scheduled two-minute drill after consulting team leaders. “Training camp is where you want to create the edge and the toughness and the identity of your football team,” Steichen remarked, acknowledging that while physicality is essential for team development, such injuries are unfortunate.
Ahmed was having a standout day prior to the injury, executing a successful play where he evaded two defenders on a run down the sideline. His injury serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks players face during training. “Seeing one of our brothers go down is obviously very tough,” tight end Will Mallory added, emphasizing the emotional toll of such incidents.
Trey Washington, visibly upset after the tackle, received comfort from his defensive teammates. The incident underscores the fine line players tread between competitive spirit and the safety of their fellow athletes. Steichen noted, “Young Trey, he’s competing for a job, straight up. We’re warriors on that field…but at the same time, we’re competing.”
The NFL banned hip-drop tackles earlier this year due to their dangerous nature, yet players are still learning how to navigate the rules while maintaining competitiveness in practice. Ahmed’s injury casts a shadow on the Colts as they prepare for an upcoming joint practice with the Ravens, but the team’s focus remains on collective growth and support for one another. “Prayers for Salvon, hopefully he has a speedy recovery,” Steichen concluded, reflecting a hopeful sentiment amidst the adversity.
This incident highlights the inherent risks in football and the importance of player safety, and hopefully, it serves as a learning moment for the entire league as they continue to evolve their approach to training and player welfare.