‘Deflate-Gate’ investigation reportedly triggered by Colts interception

The NFL’s investigation into the so-called ‘deflategate’ controversy surrounding the New England Patriots’ alleged use of under-inflated game balls Sunday may have been kickstarted by the Indianapolis Colts.

According to a report by Newsday’s Bob Glauber, the Colts became aware of the issue after linebacker D’Qwell Jackson intercepted a pass from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the second quarter. Jackson thought the ball felt under-inflated and a member of the team equipment staff agreed, bringing it to the attention of Colts Coach Chuck Pagano.

From there, Colts General Manager Ryan Grigson was informed and he told Mike Kensil, NFL director of football operations. Kensil then made officials aware of the potential issue at halftime, Glauber reported.

It’s unknown if officials did anything at halftime, but Bob Kravitz of WTHR-TV in Indianapolis reported Monday that officials during the game took a ball out of play at one point and weighed it. It’s unknown if the ball was underweight.

Pagano, however, said he “did not notice” any issues with the game balls, adding “it’s something for the league to handle.”

Multiple NFL officials said Monday the league is conducting an investigation into whether the Patriots used under-inflated balls during their 45-7 romp over the Colts. Patriots Coach Bill Belichick told reporters the team “will cooperate fully” with the NFL’s ongoing investigation.

Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations, said the league’s investigative team hopes to wrap up the probe in the “next two or three days.”

“For a fan, you want to know that everything’s equal,” Vincent said on NBC Sports Radio on Tuesday. “The integrity of the game is so important.”