Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II is seeking a new contract and thus, is not expected to participate in the offseason workout program over the next three weeks.
While this is certainly a storyline to keep an eye on, head coach Frank Reich told the media Wednesday that he isn’t worried this will leak into training camp.
“I’m not worried. I’m not worried, That doesn’t mean it won’t stretch into training camp. I hope whatever needs to get worked out whether that’s something or nothing – I’m just all positive energy towards Kenny (Moore II) because we love him and need him, but we are going to play with who is here and who is ready to go and play,” Reich said at OTAs. “We’ll just continue to get ready and we’re just super excited about this season, super excited about the work we’re getting now and that we’ll get in training camp.”
Reich also mentioned they haven’t had talks about whether Moore would participate in the mandatory minicamp on June 7. It’s a bit different during OTAs since they are voluntary but if Moore doesn’t participate in the mandatory minicamp, this may turn into an issue that needs to get resolved quickly.
What’s different about this semi holdout is that Moore is still active with the coaching staff. He is still present at the practices but simply isn’t participating. He was seen engaging and talking with new defensive coordinator Gus Bradley often during Wednesday’s practice, which was open to the media.
Reich said there has been communication throughout this whole process between Moore’s representation and the Colts so there’s no reason to think this can’t be done amicably.
“Everything is voluntary at this point. Obviously, you guys know how we feel about Kenny (Moore II). Every player has to make their own decision. We love Kenny,” Reich said. “We’re going to continue to work hard and get the guys ready who are here. I’m glad he’s here. I’m glad he’s here. I know he didn’t get the work today, but thankful he’s here and seeing and hearing everything that’s going on.”
As the 27th-highest paid cornerback, Moore does have a legitimate gripe. He still has two more years left on the extension he signed in 2018 so it will be interesting to see how that will get handled.
Moore is a key piece to the Colts defense so we should expect this situation to get resolved. If it extends into training camp, however, then we may have to wonder just how long the Colts may be without their star cornerback.
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