The Indianapolis Colts are facing mixed injury updates as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Tennessee Titans. The team has received good news regarding quarterback Anthony Richardson, who is expected to return to the lineup after missing last week’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars due to an oblique injury.
However, the team’s top wide receiver, Michael Pittman Jr., is surprisingly listed as questionable after dealing with a back injury, while star running back Jonathan Taylor has been ruled out with an ankle sprain.
Anthony Richardson’s return looks promising after he participated in the last three practices, which showed significant improvement. Colts head coach Shane Steichen expressed optimism, stating that Richardson made “huge strides” this week.
The quarterback has been seen making aggressive throws and movements during practice, which he had not been doing during last week’s media-accessible sessions. Richardson also took most of the snaps with the first-team offense, signaling his readiness to return. Backup quarterback Joe Flacco had taken over starter duties in practice last week in Richardson’s absence.
The situation with wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has been more uncertain. Earlier in the week, reports indicated that Pittman might miss multiple games due to a back injury that worsened during the game against Jacksonville. There was even discussion within the team about placing Pittman on injured reserve.
However, Pittman participated in individual drills during Friday’s practice, raising hope that he might still play on Sunday. Despite his effort to return, Pittman acknowledged that nothing is certain, and his status remains up in the air.
Pittman has been a crucial player for the Colts, leading the team in receiving yards for the past three seasons. His production has been slightly down this year, possibly due to his lingering back issue, as he is averaging his lowest receptions per game since his rookie season.
Head coach Steichen commented that Pittman was feeling good, but a final decision on his availability for Sunday has yet to be made. His presence on the field could be critical for the Colts’ offense, especially if Richardson is returning to action.
Jonathan Taylor, the Colts’ star running back and 2021 NFL rushing champion, has been ruled out for the second straight week due to an ankle sprain. Taylor has not practiced for two consecutive weeks, leaving the Colts without one of their key offensive weapons.
In his absence, backup running back Trey Sermon is expected to take over starting duties once again, following his performance last week against Jacksonville. Taylor’s absence could be a significant factor as the Colts prepare to face the Titans.
