This is a 2014, file photo of Josh McNary of the Indianapolis Colts NFL football team. Prosecutors in Indianapolis have filed charges of rape, criminal confinement with bodily injury and battery resulting in bodily injury against McNary. Peg McLeish, a spokeswoman in the city prosecutor's office, confirmed Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, that the charges were filed. No details were released. (AP Photo/File)

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis Colts have placed backup linebacker Josh McNary on the commissioner’s exempt list.

The decision comes less than 24 hours after prosecutors charged McNary with rape, criminal confinement with bodily injury and battery resulting in bodily injury.

On Wednesday, the Colts said they were aware of the allegations but did not have enough information to take action.

Before Thursday’s practice, the Colts said they had asked NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to step in. McNary is not eligible to practice with the Colts or attend their games, including Sunday’s AFC championship at New England.

McNary’s lawyer said in a statement Thursday his client denies the allegations and immediately reported to law enforcement officials.

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