INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts put backup linebacker Josh McNary on the commissioner’s exempt list Thursday, less than 24 hours after prosecutors filed criminal charges against the 26-year-old.

McNary faces charges of rape, criminal confinement with bodily injury and battery resulting in bodily injury — another off-the-field problem for a league that has been plagued by them this season.

McNary will not be permitted to practice with the team or attend games, including Sunday’s AFC championship game at New England. He will, however, continue to be paid.

Punter Pat McAfee said players were “blind-sided” by the serious allegations that were released publicly Wednesday.

“I feel sorry for all of the parties involved, but I do believe that in this country that you are innocent until proven guilty,” McAfee said. “If he is guilty of something, then I hope justice will be served.”

Coach Chuck Pagano kept his team focused on this week’s challenge — the AFC title game. Tteam officials issued a statement before the start of practice to explain the roster move.