Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner wants to clear up some confusion about his age. The former New York Jets star told reporters he's 24 years old, not 25 as widely reported across multiple platforms. Gardner stated his actual birthdate is August 31, 2001, contrary to what appears on ESPN.com, Pro Football Focus and Yahoo Sports.

The age discrepancy has persisted despite Gardner consistently providing his correct birthdate in official documents. He explained that his driver's license and all signed paperwork list 2001 as his birth year. The confusion likely stems from incorrect information circulating online, which many sources simply copied from each other. Gardner expressed frustration about repeatedly having to correct this mistake.

The Colts have maintained accurate records since acquiring Gardner in a blockbuster trade last year. Indianapolis sent two first-round picks and receiver Adonai Mitchell to New York for the promising defensive back. Despite entering his fifth NFL season, Gardner remains younger than some rookies, including Chargers first-round pick Akheem Mesidor, who recently turned 25.

This clarification matters because age affects contract negotiations, performance expectations, and veteran status classifications. Gardner's youth suggests he still has significant upside as he anchors Indianapolis' secondary this season. The team clearly valued his potential when they made the expensive move to bring him aboard.