Colts optimistic about Kwity Paye's ankle injury: 'It was pretty mild'

Indianapolis Colts first-round pick Kwity Paye left practice with an ankle injury earlier this week, but it appears he didn't suffer a serious injury. 

Colts head coach Frank Reich provided an update on the edge rusher's injury prior to this weekend's preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers. 

"We're optimistic about it, we really don't think it's going to be bad," Reich said, according to USA Today's Kevin Hickey. "I don't think it's a long term thing, it was pretty mild, but we want to be safe."

Paye did not take part in the team's joint practice with the Panthers, and it's unlikely he'll play against Carolina on Sunday. 

The Colts selected Paye with the 21st overall pick in April's NFL Draft. In four seasons at Michigan, the 22-year-old recorded 11.5 sacks, 97 tackles, 23.5 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble. 

Paye isn't the only Colt dealing with an injury this summer. Carson Wentz and Quenton Nelson both underwent foot surgery. DeForest Buckner is dealing with a foot injury and Nyheim Hines is dealing with a leg ailment. 

Indy opens up the 2021 season against the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 12.