As Will Fries was carted off the field with a leg injury on a rainy, overcast afternoon in Jacksonville, every single Colts player, coach, and staff member left the visiting sideline at EverBank Stadium to support the struggling right guard. They offered him pats on the chest and words of encouragement.
Throughout his four years with the Colts, Fries earned the respect of everyone who approached him in that difficult moment, acknowledging the harsh reality that his season was over. They witnessed his relentless effort to secure a spot in the NFL as the 248th pick in the 2021 Draft. They saw how he earned a starting role in 2022, kept it in 2023, and played 1,125 snaps for a team that fell just short of the playoffs.
And in 2024, Fries had not only become a dependable part of the Colts’ offensive line but had transformed into a physical force—catching the attention of offensive line expert Brandon Thorn with his standout play.
As Fries was wheeled off the field to Jacksonville’s hospital for immediate surgery and a challenging recovery, he raised his fist in defiance.
Months later, Fries reflected on the gesture, which felt like a statement to his reality.
“I just wanted to let them know,” Fries said, pausing for a moment, “that I was good.”
His entire career has been a defiance of the odds, especially considering he was one of the last players picked in the 2021 Draft. Players chosen in the mid-200s often struggle to make an NFL roster, let alone have a significant career. Yet, Fries played in 41 games before his injury in Week 5 of the 2024 season and, at the time of his injury, was ranked as Pro Football Focus’ ninth-highest-graded offensive lineman—right between All-Pro right tackles Penei Sewell and Lane Johnson.
“He’s come such a long way,” said left guard Quenton Nelson. “It’s all because of his hard work, determination, and consistency, giving everything to this organization and to all of us. We’re definitely going to miss him, not just as a player but as the way he plays on the field.”
The weeks following his surgery were difficult for Fries—he struggled with basic tasks as a 300-pound offensive lineman, making daily life a challenge. But he had unwavering support from his fiancée (“she was the best,” Fries said, “staying up with me through the rough nights”) and his parents, who came to visit.
Fries’ teammates continued to show support long after he was rushed to the hospital.
“What really stuck out was how all my teammates had my back,” Fries reflected. “Even though it was a tough time, I had guys checking up on me—bringing me food, visiting me. Tony (Sparano Jr.) was always checking in. Those guys in the O-line room are the best. I’m forever grateful for how they treated me. Going through this injury process wasn’t easy, but knowing I had the chance to come back and play for them kept me motivated. I’m so thankful for everything they did to help me get through it.”
With their support, Fries attacked his rehab with a fierce determination, aiming to heal as quickly as possible. And when he’s ready to return to the field, he plans to come back as an even better version of himself.
“Everything’s going well,” Fries said, noting that he’s ahead of schedule with his recovery. “I’m going to do everything I can to get back faster.”
“…I have no doubt I’ll be the same player. I know there won’t be any problems. That’s my plan.”
Be the first to comment