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Indianapolis Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason suffered a serious knee injury during the final play of Thursday night’s preseason game against the New England Patriots.
Mason tore multiple ligaments in his knee after being caught in a sideline collision as players from both teams spilled out of bounds following the final play, according to a source.
The injury could create an immediate issue for the Colts as they prepare for the regular season, depending on Mason’s final diagnosis and whether doctors determine that he needs surgery.
Mason Injured on Final Play
The injury occurred as Colts quarterback Riley Leonard attempted a Hail Mary with time expiring in Indianapolis’ 13-13 tie with New England.
Mason was standing near the sideline watching the play when a Colts blocker and Patriots defender remained engaged after the quarterback released the ball. The players continued toward the sideline and collided with Mason, who was unable to avoid the contact.
Mason was knocked to the ground and immediately appeared to be in significant pain.
Colts team doctors evaluated him on the sideline before he joined the team on its flight back to Indianapolis. He underwent further evaluation after returning home.
Injury Could Affect Colts Special Teams
Mason oversees all aspects of Indianapolis’ special teams unit, making his availability an important concern for the Colts.
Special teams coordinators work with players from throughout the roster, meaning Mason’s mobility could be particularly important if he remains involved on the sideline during practices and games.
Mason is entering his fourth season as Indianapolis’ special teams coordinator, with senior assistant Joe Hastings working alongside him.
The Colts have not publicly announced a timetable for Mason’s return.
Mason Has Built Strong Special Teams Unit
Mason’s injury comes after he helped oversee one of the NFL’s better special teams units last season.
Indianapolis ranked second in the league in kickoff return average at 28.8 yards and allowed the lowest opponent punt return average at 6.3 yards.
The Colts also finished second in the NFL in field-goal percentage at 94.4%, despite using three different kickers during the season.
Spencer Shrader went 13-for-14, Blake Grupe made all 11 of his attempts and Michael Badgley converted 10 of 11.
Mason’s Coaching Career
Mason joined the Colts in 2023 after spending the previous season as Notre Dame’s special teams coordinator.
He began his coaching career as a student assistant at Denison before working his way through several college programs. Mason eventually joined Cincinnati in 2017 as the school’s director of recruiting and special teams assistant.
Cincinnati promoted him to special teams coordinator in 2018, and he remained with the Bearcats through the 2021 season.
Mason then spent one season at Notre Dame before making the move to the NFL with Indianapolis.
The Colts will now have to determine how to handle their special teams operation while Mason recovers from the knee injury.
