Colts Coach Brian Mason Tears Multiple Knee Ligaments in Patriots Preseason Game

Indianapolis Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason suffered multiple torn knee ligaments during the final play of a Thursday night preseason game against the Patriots.

Indianapolis Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason suffered multiple torn knee ligaments following a sideline collision on the final play of a Thursday night preseason game against the New England Patriots. The incident occurred as time expired on the game clock during a Hail Mary pass attempt by quarterback Riley Leonard. While Mason observed the action near the out-of-bounds line, a Colts blocker and a Patriots defensive player remained engaged after the ball was released, carrying their momentum into the sideline area. Mason was unable to avoid the contact and was knocked to the turf, where he immediately showed signs of severe pain.

Following the collision, Mason joined the Indianapolis roster on the flight home for further medical evaluation. The Indianapolis Star was the first outlet to report the physical damage sustained by the coach, which was later confirmed to ESPN by an anonymous source. Mason is currently in his fourth season with the Indianapolis organization after previously serving as an assistant coach at Notre Dame.

Sideline Collision Details

The injury took place during a chaotic sequence as the Colts and Patriots concluded their exhibition contest. The fracas between the two opposing players continued well past the field of play, leading directly to the impact that leveled the coordinator. Mason’s immediate reaction on the ground signaled the gravity of the ligament damage before he was attended to by staff. Despite the severity of the leg injury, he remained with the team during their immediate travel back to Indiana for diagnostic testing.

Impact on Special Teams Operations

Mason is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Indianapolis kicking and return units, a role that requires corralling players from every segment of the active roster. His immediate availability for upcoming practices and games remains uncertain as the team determines if surgery is required to repair the damage. Senior assistant Joe Hastings currently aids Mason in managing the diverse personnel groups required for special teams execution.

Coaching Staff Logistics

Any reduction in Mason's mobility presents a logistical challenge for the Colts' coaching staff, as the position necessitates active movement to manage large groups of athletes during drills. The final diagnosis will dictate how the team addresses his absence or limited movement during the remainder of the preseason and the start of the regular schedule. While the specific ligaments torn were not listed by name, the confirmation of multiple tears indicates a significant recovery period.

Stephen Holder, who has covered the NFL since 2005 and the Colts since 2013, confirmed the details of the injury on August 14, 2026. The team has not yet released a formal timeline for Mason's potential return to full duties on the sideline. The evaluation process in Indianapolis continues as the staff prepares for the next phase of the NFL calendar following the New England matchup.