INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Five days after their 35-14 Wild Card loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Indianapolis Colts returned to the locker room one last time to clear out their gear and face the media. The loss marked a sobering end to a promising 11-6 season that featured growth from young quarterback Jayden Arrieta and an opportunistic defense, but ultimately fell short against a seasoned Raiders squad.
"It hurts," said Arrieta, who completed 90% of his passes in the loss but was limited to just 169 yards due to relentless pressure. "I felt like I made the right reads, but they were all over us. We just couldn't find rhythm early, and by the time we did, it was too late."
Veteran running back Jonathan Taylor provided a bright spot with a 45-yard touchdown scamper in the second quarter. He finished the season with over 1,300 total yards and 10 touchdowns, reminding everyone that he remains the heartbeat of the Colts offense.
Several key veterans now face uncertain futures. Linebacker E.J. Speed, offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer, and defensive lineman McTelvin Agim are among the players entering contract years, and their returns are far from guaranteed.
"This city means everything to me," said Speed, a locker room leader. "If this was it, I hope I left it all out there. I think I did."
Head coach Shane Steichen reflected on the journey with optimism. "There's a foundation in place. We took a step forward this year. We have our guy at quarterback. We just need to build on it."
