Colts Have Handful of Names Return to Practice for Broncos Battle

The Indianapolis Colts might get back two of their most important starters for the Denver Broncos matchup.

Nov 17, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (1) catches a pass against New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed (4) and safety Chuck Clark (36) during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Indianapolis Colts have released their injury report for Wednesday's practice ahead of a critical AFC showdown with the Denver Broncos.

Wednesday's practice report for #INDvsDEN: pic.twitter.com/AKVWav71rg
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) December 11, 2024

Wide receiver Ashton Dulin (ankle) and starting offensive tackle Braden Smith (personal) didn't practice Wednesday. Shane Steichen confirmed that Smith likely won't suit up for Week 15, meaning rookie Matt Goncalves may start again.

Colts are designating Ryan Kelly and Jaylon Carlies to return.

Josh Downs will practice today, Tanor Bortolini is back

Braden Smith will likely not play on Sunday due to the personal matter. Steichen says he will not get into details, wants to respect Smith’s privacy.
— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) December 11, 2024

Center Tanor Bortolini and linebacker Jaylon Carlies were full participants, which is great for the offensive line depth and Gus Bradley's defense. Carlies is arguably the best coverage linebacker in the scheme and the Colts can use his prowess once he hits the field.

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The biggest names with positivity surrounding them are receiver Josh Downs (shoulder) and center/captain Ryan Kelly (knee). If Downs does start, there is a chance it's in a limited capacity. If Kelly returns, he'll be back after Danny Pinter manned the position against the New England Patriots.

The Colts and Anthony Richardson are walking into a difficult situation but must be ready for the challenge at Mile High to make the playoffs. The Broncos are a hot team that isn't showing many signs of slowing down, so we'll have to see who wins the battle in an AFC clash with postseason implications.

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