Shortly before Tuesday’s 90-minute practice concluded at Grand Park, Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen brought his team together in a huddle at midfield and explained the final period was going to be unique.
The last six plays were “live,” meaning players were tackled to the ground and most of the guardrails familiar to training camp were removed.
A mix of young players was on the field to get their first taste of such an environment in the NFL, and rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson was under center. Even though he was still wearing his red “no-contact” jersey, the 21-year-old broke into a broad smile when the live session was broached during post-practice media availability.