In a move that signals a changing of the guard in Indianapolis, the Colts have released veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II after being unable to fulfill his trade request. The 2021 Pro Bowl selection and longtime team captain wanted a fresh start, but when no suitable trade partner emerged, the Colts opted to give him an early release on Thursday to maximize his chances of landing with a new team before training camp.
Moore’s journey from undrafted rookie in 2017 to one of the NFL’s premier slot cornerbacks is a story of perseverance. He earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike, serving as a multiyear captain and anchoring the secondary through multiple defensive coordinator changes. However, Father Time and mounting injuries have taken their toll. Last season, under new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Moore started just seven of 14 games and posted his lowest production since his rookie campaign—finishing with 55 tackles, six pass breakups, and one interception returned for a touchdown.
General manager Chris Ballard had hinted at the possibility of a release before the NFL draft, saying, "I’m not at that point right now, not as of this minute I’m not. But, yeah, I’ll give him some latitude." After using the draft to potentially find a faster replacement, the Colts made the difficult decision to part ways with the 30-year-old, who was set to earn $9.49 million this season.
Beyond the gridiron, Moore’s impact in Indianapolis extended far deeper than any stat sheet. He became a pillar of the community, spending his Tuesdays—typically the NFL’s in-season day off—teaching life skills to students at Indianapolis Ritter High School. He also launched the "Rise and Shine Initiative," a program focused on accountability, consistency, and helping students envision opportunities beyond the classroom.
"It feels like I’ve gained little brothers and sisters," Moore told the NFL Players Association. "Just like I want them to do well in the classroom, they want me to do well on Sundays."
Moore’s release marks the end of an era for a player who embodied the Colts’ culture both on and off the field. Now, as he hits the open market, several teams in need of veteran secondary depth and leadership will surely come calling. For the Colts, the move signals a youth movement in the defensive backfield—and a new chapter for a franchise looking to reload.