Former Saints kicker Blake Grupe signs to Colts practice squad

It didn't take Blake Grupe a long time to find a new home after being cut by the Saints.

Grupe is signing to the Colts practice squad after a workout, with Indianapolis cutting kicker Michael Badgley after a third missed extra point in the span of seven games. Grupe has been the starting kicker for the Saints over the past three seasons, including a 27-for-31 campaign in 2024 with six makes from 50-plus.

The Saints opted to move on from Grupe after he missed eight field goals in the team's first 11 games, including a pair of costly misses in a Week 12 loss to the Falcons. They also went through a workout process, signing former LSU standout Cade York. That workout also included Justin Tucker, who is coming off a 10-game suspension. The Colts also hosted Tucker for a workout this week.

The Saints had York and Charlie Smyth compete in last week's practice before ultimately going with Smyth off the practice squad. The Saints only called Smyth into action for one field goal, but it was an impressive one from 56 yards out in a critical situation, the Saints' longest make on the season. He also converted on an onside kick attempt that provided a shot at a game-winning drive, but the offense was unable to score in the 21-17 loss.

Smyth remains on the practice squad, where he is eligible to be elevated up to two more times. The Saints do not currently have a kicker on their active roster.

The Saints also announced a series of roster moves on Tuesday, signing CB Beanie Bishop to the practice squad while terminating the contract of RB Ian Wheeler and waiving WR Kevin Austin Jr. and OT Barry Wesley. One of those open spots could go to WR Dante Pettis, who has been serving as the team's primary punt returner off of the practice squad but has exhausted his three elevations.

The Saints (2-10) head back to Florida for a matchup with the Bucs (7-5) in Week 14. Catch all the action on WWL and Audacy.

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