Colts Sign Homegrown Andrew McDonald; Waive Saunders

Aug 22, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; Carolina Panthers tackle Andrew McDonald (79) on the sideline during the first quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts announced today that they have signed offensive tackle Andrew McDonald and waived tight end Weslye Saunders in a corresponding roster move. McDonald is a local product, having attended Warren Central High School in Indianapolis. Additionally, he played collegiate football at Indiana University.

After going undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft, McDonald has also spent time with the Miami Dolphins (2012), Carolina Panthers (2013), and most recently, the Seattle Seahawks (2014), as he appeared in 2 games this season.

The 26-year old McDonald gives the team additional tackle depth, as the Colts now have Joe Reitz, Xavier Nixon, and McDonald available at offensive tackle. With Reitz having started the last two games at right guard due to Hugh Thornton‘s injury, and Xavier Nixon (foot) still a bit banged up after missing last weekend’s game, McDonald gives the offensive line extra insurance at offensive tackle.

It’s worth noting that McDonald was “Player A” in the Wells report as one of the other Miami Dolphins, in addition to Jonathan Martin, that was bullied by Richie Incognito in 2012.

With Dwayne Allen set to return from an ankle injury this week, Saunders was no longer needed for additional tight end depth. He appeared in the last 2 games for the Colts. His release signals that Allen, who’s officially listed as “questionable”, should be ready to go for this Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. Per Chuck Pagano, Dwayne Allen is set to return to practice on Wednesday.