Colts’ Tyler Goodson holds back tears after season crushing drop: ‘Feeling like a failure’

Running back Tyler Goodson, who infrequently sees play time and whose inability to catch a faulty pass from quarterback Gardner Minshew barred the Indianapolis Colts from advancing to the playoffs, teared up while accepting blame for the botched play. "I felt like I failed," a heartfelt Goodson conveyed in the wake of the Colts' 23-19 defeat against the Texans, which propelled Houston into postseason contention. "While I'm not a failure — I must clarify — I sensed immense support from my teammates, advising me to stay optimistic. I'm notorious for being my own worst critic, and I'm fully aware that I could've — and should've — completed that play. I need to revisit my strategies, continue honing my skills, and return an improved player next year."

The game's turning point occurred when the ball was on Houston's 15-yard line at fourth and 1 with 66 seconds left in the final quarter. The Colts' rookie head coach Shane Steichen, who has demonstrated resourcefulness with offensive strategies — particularly after newcomer quarterback Anthony Richardson had to bow out the season — chose to pass the football to Goodson over Jonathan Taylor, rated among the NFL's leading running backs. Despite dealing with a heel injury during the game, Taylor accomplished 188 ground yards. Meanwhile, Goodson hadn't managed to get hold of the ball the entire night.

Steichen chose to use a timeout before the play to ensure he had the right personnel. Goodson had a clear shot with the ball; however, Minshew's pass missed the mark slightly, and Goodson, forced to twist mid-air, was unsuccessful in catching the ball.

Reflecting on his performance, Goodson remarked, "I need to have a talk with my folks. They're likely the only ones who still have affection for me." Nevertheless, the 23-year-old was hopeful about his recovery. "This episode doesn't encapsulate my abilities as a player," Goodson told reporters. "It serves as a driving force. I put too much into this sport to botch that play like that, and it's going to gnaw at me until I find myself in that situation again, with the chance to correct it."

Taylor, who was not part of the final play, refrained from disputing the choice made. He endorsed the coaches wholeheartedly, saying, "Just look at the season Shane's had. Have there ever been any doubts concerning his decisions throughout the year? He's always been spot-on with his choices."