Indianapolis Colts Josh McNary Charged with Rape, Placed on the Exempt List

The Indianapolis Colts have placed backup linebacker Josh McNary on the exempt list one day after the player was charged with rape, criminal confinement with bodily injury and battery that led to bodily injury.

"That designation will permit the investigation provided by the League's Personal Conduct Policy to run its course and will afford Josh the opportunity to focus on his defense against the charges," the Colts said in a written statement. "The Colts sincerely hope this extraordinarily serious matter will be resolved expeditiously and that justice will prevail."

The Colts stated that although they were aware of the allegations on Wednesday, they did not have enough information to take immediate action. On the following day, the Colts asked NFL commissioner Roger Goodell to step in. McNary, 26, was charged with rape by the Marion County Superior Court.

According to the criminal complaint that was filed early Wednesday morning, McNary is accused of sexually assaulting a 29-year-old woman on Dec. 1. The woman told Indianapolis police that a man had taken her to an apartment after she went out drinking with her friends. She stated that the man tried to kiss her and when she did not respond to his advances, he forcefully assaulted her. The victim left the apartment with the man's phone, which was later linked to McNary.

McNary's lawyer said in a statement on Thursday that McNary denies the allegations.

McNary will not be allowed to practice with the team. He is also banned from attending any of the Colts' future games until his legal problems are resolved. Receiver Griff Whalen from the practice squad was promoted to fill the empty spot.

The Colts will play in Sunday's AFC Championship in New England against the Patriots.