The Indianapolis Colts released their final injury report ahead of the team’s Week 13 matchup with the Patriots, and it includes several key contributors.
Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know:
The final practice report for #INDvsNE: pic.twitter.com/N03I3jbGKY
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) November 29, 2024
– As was expected, Josh Downs (shoulder) has been ruled out. Earlier in the week, Shane Steichen said it would be “tough” for Downs to be available. Now the big question is, how do the Colts handle the slot duties in his absence? If it’s similar to what they did in Weeks 1 and 2, it will be a by-committee approach with AD Mitchell being a key part of that equation.
– In addition to not having Downs, the Colts will also be without Ashton Dulin (ankle) at receiver as well. Dulin has often been the fourth receiver on the team playing time-wise, regularly out-snapping Mitchell. Dulin has only eight targets but has been a factor in the run game, carrying the ball five times and as a blocker. The Colts return units will take a hit as well this week with Downs and Dulin out.
– Alec Pierce (foot) is questionable and did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday but was a full participant Friday. Nate Atkins of the Indy Star would also report that Shane Steichen said that Pierce will be good to go.
– Some good news is that Bernhard Raimann will return to left tackle for the Colts, but they will now be without Braden Smith (personal matter) at right tackle. The Colts could choose to move Matt Goncavles to right tackle, where the bulk of his college snaps came, or start Blake Freeland–although since training camp, Goncalves has seemed to have a firm grasp on the swing tackle role.
– Tanor Bortolini remains out with a concussion. With Ryan Kelly still on IR, that likely means Danny Pinter gets the start, which will be his first regular season action since 2022. Consistency on offense for the Colts begins with better play from the offensive line unit.
