The Indianapolis Colts wrapped up their final practice of the week on Friday as they conclude their on-field preparations for their pivotal matchup with Houston.
The final injury report has not yet been released, but the only two players that have been ruled out at this time are Genard Avery and Jaylon Carlies.
When it comes to Jonathan Taylor and DeForest Buckner, head coach Shane Steichen said that both are “tracking very well” this week.
Buckner has been on injured reserve since Week 3 after suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 2 against Green Bay. Taylor has missed the last three games with a high ankle sprain. This week was the first time that both returned to practice.
Taylor would practice all three days, which included being a full participant on Thursday. As of now, we do not know his practice status on Friday.
Buckner, meanwhile, was limited on Wednesday, a full participant on Thursday, and then rested on Friday.
Update: Jonathan Taylor does not have an injury designation and is a full-go while Buckner is questionable.
It goes without saying, but having both players back would be a massive boost for the Colts. The pass rush and run defense has suffered without Buckner, while the run game has struggled to gain traction without Taylor.
There is the obvious impact that both players bring to the table, but the presence alone of Buckner and Taylor makes their teammates better because of the attention they draw, which can lead to opportunities for others.
