Colts Get Much-Needed Reinforcements Back From Injury

Indianapolis isn't entering this season with enough proven depth to comfortably absorb long-term injuries at important positions like years in the past. That is especially true at wide receiver, where Pierce has yet to return to full practice.

That makes Downs’ return from a groin injury even more significant. He missed practices over the weekend, but head coach Shane Steichen previously indicated the injury was not serious, and getting him back on the field Tuesday is an encouraging development. 

Downs is too valuable to this offense for a relatively minor injury in August to turn into something that follows him into the regular season. Getting him back on the field is encouraging, but making sure the groin issue does not become a recurring problem matters even more.

Treadwell also returned from a hamstring injury Tuesday, giving Indianapolis another receiver back in the rotation.

The Colts WR room depth has already been tested throughout camp, making every healthy return at the position that much more valuable.

Justin Walley Faces Another Injury Test

Walley’s return may be just as important for a defense that needs its young secondary pieces available.

The second-year cornerback missed his entire rookie season after suffering a torn ACL during a joint practice with the Baltimore Ravens last August. Walley had been one of Indianapolis’ biggest training camp standouts before the injury ended his season before he could play a regular-season snap.

Now, his second NFL training camp has already been interrupted by a hamstring injury.

Walley returned Tuesday and participated in team work, which is a positive step. However, his biggest challenge this season may be proving he can stay healthy enough to consistently show the talent Indianapolis saw from him last summer.

Two training camps have now been interrupted by injuries before Walley has played his first NFL snap.

Wohler finds himself in a similar situation after his rookie season was wiped out by a Lisfranc injury. He returned from a hamstring issue Tuesday and also participated in team drills.

For a defense lacking overwhelming depth across the board, getting both young defensive backs healthy could become increasingly important as Week 1 approaches.

Alec Pierce Remains the Biggest Storyline

Pierce may still be the injury situation worth watching closest.

The veteran receiver was on the field Tuesday doing individual work with a trainer and wearing cleats as he continues rehabbing from left ankle surgery.

General manager Chris Ballard said there has been no setback in Pierce’s recovery and clarified that Pierce did not receive a second PRP injection following surgery. Ballard also said Pierce is making “great progress” as he continues working his way back.

There is still no firm timeline for when Pierce will return to full practice, but the expectation remains that he will be available for the regular-season opener against Baltimore.

That makes every step forward between now and Week 1 worth monitoring.

The Colts are starting to get healthier, but this is not a roster that can afford for several important players to battle lingering injuries throughout the season. Getting Downs, Walley, Wohler and Treadwell back Tuesday was a strong start, while Pierce’s continued progress may be the most important development of them all.