What's Happening?
The Indianapolis Colts have announced that four players will not participate in the upcoming Week 18 game against the Houston Texans. Cornerback Sauce Gardner, who recently returned from a calf injury,
will be sidelined again due to a re-injury. Tight end Will Mallory is also out with a lung issue, leaving the Colts with only two healthy tight ends on their active roster. Quarterback Anthony Richardson and safety Daniel Scott remain on injured reserve, with Richardson ruled out early in the week. Despite these setbacks, other players like Tanor Bortolini, Dalton Tucker, and JT Tuimoloau are expected to be available after missing the previous game.
Why It's Important?
The absence of key players like Gardner and Richardson could significantly impact the Colts' performance against the Texans, a team still vying for the AFC South title. The Colts, already out of playoff contention, are looking to end their season on a positive note. The injuries highlight the challenges the team has faced this season, affecting their depth and performance. For the Texans, this game is crucial as they need a win and a Jaguars loss to secure the division title, making the Colts' weakened lineup potentially advantageous for Houston.
What's Next?
The Colts will need to rely on their remaining healthy players to step up in the absence of key starters. The game will also serve as an opportunity for younger players to gain experience and showcase their abilities. For the Texans, a victory is essential to keep their division title hopes alive, and they will likely exploit the Colts' vulnerabilities. The outcome of this game could influence offseason decisions for both teams, particularly in terms of player health management and roster adjustments.
