Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen was downgraded to OUT with a groin injury and will miss Sunday morning’s affair against the Washington Commanders in London.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen initially announced that no players were ruled out, but the six-time pro bowler was limited in practice this week, so there was always a possibility. Allen sat out of Friday’s practice with a developed groin issue before officially being ruled out.
The 34-year-old possession receiver found the blue paydirt for the first time in a Colts uniform last week, scoring a key touchdown in the 19-17 win over the AFC South rival Houston Texans. It was the 71st touchdown catch of his 14-year career, moving Allen into a tie with Bob Hayes and Wes Welker for No. 50 on the NFL’s all-time list. Through three games, Allen has been a productive addition with 13 catches on 20 targets for 100 receiving yards and one touchdown.
The absence leaves Indianapolis without another key piece to their depleted receiver room. The Colts were already expected to play without Alec Pierce, who is on injured reserve while dealing with a heel injury and will miss at least the next three games. Ashton Dulin also missed the last two weeks with an ankle injury, but was not ruled out and should be available for Sunday’s game. With Allen sidelined, the Colts elevated receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhene from the practice squad to add more depth to the position.
The Colts (1-2) face the Commanders (1-2) in the NFL’s early Sunday window, with an early kickoff scheduled for 9:30 a.m. at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
