From Basketball Courts to NFL Fields
Carson Towt, a 6‑foot‑9 center who starred for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, never imagined his next chapter would involve pads and a football playbook. After exhausting his college eligibility, Towt entered the NFL draft pool as an undrafted free agent, hoping the Indianapolis Colts would give him a chance to learn the tight end position.
During a recent practice session, Towt suffered an injury that forced the team to place him on injured reserve. The move ends his brief experiment with the Colts’ practice squad, a program that has historically turned former basketball standouts into viable NFL tight ends.
Roster Shuffles in the Offseason
To plug the gaps left by injuries on the offensive line, the Colts signed former Indiana Hoosiers tackle Trey Wedig, a key contributor from the university’s first‑team lineup. The club also added tight end Tyler Moore and Nigerian prospect Roy Mbaeteka, while parting ways with wide receiver E.J. Horton and Dominican Republic native Bayron Matos, who struggled to adapt in training camp.
The offensive tackle position has been further depleted by setbacks to veterans Luke Tenuta and rookie Nolan Rucci, prompting the front office to reinforce the group with experienced hands such as Matt Goncalves. These moves reflect a broader strategy to stabilize the line before the preseason schedule kicks into gear.
The Colts’ history of scouting basketball players for tight end roles adds context to Towt’s initial signing. Alumni like Erik Swoope, Mo Alie‑Cox and Tyler Warren have shown that the conversion can work, but each case is unique and depends on adaptation to the physical demands of the NFL.
Looking Ahead
With the International Player Pathway Program now designating Mbaeteka in place of Matos, the team is experimenting with global talent to broaden its roster depth. As the preseason progresses, the Colts will evaluate how these adjustments shape their offensive scheme and whether a former college basketball star can finally translate his athleticism into on‑field production.