Indianapolis The Indianapolis Colts released linebacker Austin Ajiake off the practice squad Thursday and added wide receiver Ethan Fernea.
Fernea, who is 6-0 and weighs 195 pounds, took part in the Colts’ training camp and offseason program in 2024. On August 14, the team waived him as injured, and the following day, he was placed back on the Injured Reserve list. On August 20, Fernea received an injury settlement and was removed from the Injured Reserve list. During the previous two seasons (2022–2023), he was a member of the team’s practice squad and active roster. Fernea played in three games in 2023. He participated in one game as a rookie in 2022. On May 13, 2022, Fernea, a UCLA graduate, was first signed by Indianapolis as an undrafted free agent. The pronunciation of his last name is FIR-knee-uh.
The 6-1, 223-pound Ajiake has been a member of the team’s practice squad the whole season. On December 28, 2023, he signed his first contract with the Indianapolis practice squad. Ajiake was a member of the Colts, Green Bay Packers, and Las Vegas Raiders practice squads during his first season. After signing with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent on August 3, 2023, out of UNLV, he took part in training camp. The pronunciation of his last name is AH-gee-kay.
The Indianapolis Colts have added to their wide receiver depth by signing Ethan Fernea to their practice squad. Fernea, who has previously spent time with the team, is a versatile and promising young player who brings a solid blend of speed, work ethic, and athleticism to the Colts’ receiver corps.
Fernea, a former UCLA Bruin, first signed with Indianapolis as an undrafted free agent in 2022. During his college career, he showed his ability to contribute on both offense and special teams. At UCLA, Fernea wasn’t a primary target in the passing game, but he made a name for himself through his toughness and tenacity on special teams, as well as his willingness to contribute in a variety of roles. His skill set and mentality caught the attention of the Colts’ front office, earning him a shot to make an impact at the professional level.
After being waived earlier this year, Fernea re-joins the Colts’ practice squad with an opportunity to continue developing his game under the watchful eyes of head coach Shane Steichen and the Colts’ coaching staff. The practice squad is often where young players like Fernea can sharpen their skills, work on timing with the quarterbacks, and get valuable reps in practice as they wait for a chance to be activated to the active roster.
The Colts, who have dealt with injuries and inconsistencies at the wide receiver position, could use the depth and flexibility that Fernea offers. Although not yet a household name, Fernea’s ability to contribute on special teams may make him a valuable asset if the team faces roster challenges later in the season. Special teams play is often where players like Fernea can carve out a role for themselves, and given his history in that area, it’s an aspect of the game where he could stand out.
For Fernea, this opportunity represents another chance to prove himself and potentially carve out a more permanent role with the team. His return to the Colts’ organization highlights the team’s belief in his potential and readiness to contribute, even if it’s in a developmental capacity for now.
The Colts are currently sitting in the middle of a competitive AFC South, and as they look to make a push for the playoffs, depth at every position will be crucial. By signing Fernea, the team adds another option to the mix as they prepare for the grind of the season ahead.
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