Colts suspend key contributors Isaiah McKenzie and Tony Brown for final three games

On Saturday, when the Indianapolis Colts announced their inactive players for the Week 15 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, it was two names on the list that everyone was surprised to see: Isaiah McKenzie and Tony Brown. While neither started on offense or defense, they were both key contributors on special teams and depth pieces for the offensive and defensive units. No one knew why they were healthy scratches but everyone got clarity on Tuesday.

The Colts announced that Isaiah McKenzie and Tony Brown are suspended for the reminder of the regular season. That means a three-game suspension for each veteran.

Why did the Colts suspend Isaiah McKenzie and Tony Brown?

Indianapolis announced that Brown and McKenzie are being suspended “for conduct detrimental to the team.” However, there weren’t any other details about what exactly the two players did to merit a suspension. For now, Indianapolis is keeping that information internal. To be clear, this is a suspension given out by the team, not the NFL. So whatever the issue, it’s an organizational one.

As the 8-6 Colts continue their push to the postseason, they’ll now do so without McKenzie and Brown. Isaiah McKenzie, who’s in his seventh year as a wide receiver in the league, has played in 13 games this season for the Colts. He had been the team’s top return man and has also caught 11 passes for 82 yards.

Tony Brown has been in the NFL since 2018 and he’s been a depth defensive back and key special teams player for Indianapolis the last two seasons. Playing in 12 games this year, Brown has played 71% of Indy’s special teams snaps. On the year, he has 10 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception.

Brown and McKenzie will now be away from the team for the next three weeks. If Indianapolis finishes the season strong and makes a playoff appearance, Brown and McKenzie will be able to rejoin the team in the postseason.

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