The Indianapolis Colts defense was dealt a heavy blow on Thursday when it was announced that starting free safety Julian Blackmon suffered a season-ending Achilles tear this week in practice.
Despite that, a few of their other young defenders who missed Wednesday's practice were back in some capacity on Thursday. How the rest of their injuries shape up for the final day of practice on Friday followed by the official injury report could play quite the role in Sunday's matchup with the San Francisco 49ers, who have been a little bit snakebitten themselves.
Here is how the Colts and 49ers are looking, health-wise, before this Sunday night's Week 7 matchup.
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Leonard, Lewis, and Paye were all able to return to the field as limited participants Thursday. That was to be expected for Leonard, who has followed a similar script each week while he deals with his ankle injury. However, Paye has missed some time with his hamstring recently. As for Sendejo, he may be who they call on first to replace Blackmon, so we'll see if he can clear the concussion protocol in time for Sunday. Ya-Sin remaining out likely means a bigger role for Isaiah Rodgers again this week if Ya-Sin can't go.
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For the 49ers, they continue to deal with issues to their quarterbacks as starter Garoppolo remains limited and backup Trey Lance remains out. There is optimism about Garoppolo's status for Sunday. Also, starting left tackle Trent Williams is still out with his ankle and elbow injuries.
Have thoughts on this week's injuries? Drop them below in the comment section!
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