The Indianapolis Colts (8-7) look to be getting two massive reinforcements for their Week 17 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders (7-8).
Starters Braden Smith and Michael Pittman Jr. returned to practice on Thursday.
Braden Smith:
Smith had not practiced since leaving the Colts Week 13 matchup with the Tennessee Titans with a knee injury. That is before Thursday when he made his return. Smith playing this week would be a massive boost for the Colts offense, as rookie Blake Freeland has certainly struggled. With a pass rusher of Maxx Crosby's caliber on deck, being able to have their offense line at full strength gives them a better chance to limit his impact.
Michael Pittman Jr.
After seeing how much the Colts offense struggled without Pittman Jr. last week, getting him back would be a relief. He not only practiced today but made a significant step towards clearing the NFL's concussion protocol as he practiced without a red non-contact jersey. This means he will need to again be cleared by a medical professional, but he seems on track to return to action this week.
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