Adonai Mitchell Owns Up to Costly Mistakes in Colts’ Defeat
Adonai Mitchell’s fumble at the goal line was a painful blow in the Indianapolis Colts’ Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams — and the young wide receiver took full responsibility afterward.
The second-year pass catcher made two crucial errors in the game, both of which significantly impacted the outcome. While the start to his NFL career has been inconsistent, Mitchell is still seen as one of the most naturally talented players on the Colts’ roster, with a high ceiling and elite potential.
At Texas in 2023, Mitchell led the nation in lowest drop percentage, showing he has sure hands. But so far in the pros, that same consistency hasn’t translated. Early signs of hesitation, dropped passes, and mental miscues have held him back — though Sunday nearly changed that narrative.
Mitchell broke free for what appeared to be a highlight-reel 75-yard touchdown. It had all the makings of a breakout moment — until the ball slipped out just before he crossed the goal line, resulting in a touchback instead of his first NFL score.
After the game, Mitchell didn’t shy away from the media. Standing at his locker, he addressed the mistake head-on.
“The ball was put in my hand to make a play for the team. Just unacceptable… I just got to be better for the team and for the organization.”
He also viewed it as a growth opportunity.
“The whole play happened because of me, and the only way I’m gonna be able to get forward is… just growing.”
When asked directly if he had begun celebrating too early on the play, Mitchell was honest.
“I lost focus… I made a play that can’t happen.”
He also referenced a similar fumble by Jonathan Taylor in Denver and a lesson the coaching staff emphasized afterward — “letters and logos.”
“Just holding the ball through the letters and logos, finishing through the end zone,” he explained.
Beyond the fumble, Mitchell also committed a penalty that wiped out another Colts touchdown. Visibly upset, he said simply, “Just trying to make a play,” clearly frustrated by the way the game unfolded.
Emotionally, Mitchell admitted the moment was difficult to process.
“You know this play hurts… hurts a lot.”
“They weren’t the good ones,” he added when asked about the emotions he felt after the fumble.
Despite the painful loss, his teammates rallied around him. Though he admitted he couldn’t fully process their support in the moment, it clearly meant something to him.
“I couldn’t really process it, you know… kind of in the moment. I really still can’t process it, to be real.”
Mitchell ended his postgame comments with a commitment to improve.
“We’re just gonna move forward and learn. Just be better for the organization.”
For those calling for him to be released, the Colts have made it clear — that’s not how they operate. They expect accountability, but also believe in growth. Mitchell’s response shows he’s willing to take that path.
His mistakes won’t define his career — but how he responds in the coming weeks might.
No Comment! Be the first one.