The Indianapolis Colts have partnered with Zebra Technologies Corporation, the NFL’s Official Real-Time Location Solutions Provider, to implement advanced RFID tracking technology for the 2025 season. By leveraging Zebra’s MotionWorks Sport system, the Colts aim to gain real-time insights into player performance, optimize game strategies, and enhance player health and safety during practice sessions.
Colts collaborate with Zebra Technologies for RFID-based player tracking.
Zebra’s MotionWorks Sport system monitors player and ball data in real time.
Tracks metrics like speed, distance, ball orientation, and formations.
Enhances game strategies, workload management, and player safety.
Zebra marks its 12th year powering NFL’s Next Gen Stats platform.
Technology used in NFL games, Combines, and across 15,000+ players.
The Colts are utilizing Zebra’s MotionWorks Sport system, which employs RFID tags embedded in footballs, shoulder pads, practice shirts, and compression gear to deliver real-time location system (RTLS) data. This technology enables the team to monitor critical metrics such as player speed, acceleration, deceleration, distance covered, ball orientation, player proximity, and formations. “We are continually seeking innovative tools that equip our players to excel in practice and on game day,” said Mike Minnis, Colts Director of Sports Performance. “Zebra’s tracking solution delivers the critical information we need to make informed decisions about on-field performance, manage player workloads, and guide return-to-play choices.”
Zebra’s RFID tracking technology provides the Colts with live data during practice sessions, enabling coaches and staff to track player progress and workloads in real time. This data-driven approach supports informed decision-making, helping to optimize training regimens, reduce injury risks, and guide return-to-play protocols. The technology’s precision allows the team to analyze every practice repetition, offering insights that translate into on-field success. The Colts join a growing list of NFL teams leveraging Zebra’s solutions to enhance performance and player safety.
Now in its 12th year as the NFL’s Official Real-Time Location Solutions Provider, Zebra Technologies powers the league’s Next Gen Stats platform, delivering detailed analytics for fans, media, and teams. “We are thrilled to welcome the Indianapolis Colts to our roster of esteemed NFL team clients,” said Joe White, Chief Product and Solutions Officer, Zebra Technologies. “Zebra’s tracking solution will empower the team to analyze practice data in unprecedented ways.” Since 2014, Zebra has tracked over 15,000 players across more than 550,000 plays, including NFL games, Combines, and international events.
Zebra’s expertise extends beyond sports, providing visibility solutions in industries like retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. The company’s RFID technology enhances operational efficiency and real-time decision-making across these sectors, demonstrating its versatility and impact. For the Colts, this partnership represents a step toward leveraging cutting-edge technology to gain a competitive edge in the NFL.
The collaboration between the Indianapolis Colts and Zebra Technologies marks a significant advancement in data-driven performance optimization. By integrating Zebra’s RFID tracking into practice sessions, the Colts are poised to enhance game strategies, improve player safety, and drive on-field success in the 2025 season, aligning with the NFL’s broader adoption of advanced analytics.
Zebra provides the solutions to help businesses grow through increased asset visibility, connected frontline workers and intelligent automation. The company operates in more than 100 countries, and our customers include over 80% of the Fortune 500. Designed for the frontline, Zebra’s award-winning portfolio includes hardware, software, and services, all backed by our 50+ years of innovation and global partner ecosystem.