The Indianapolis Colts are preparing to kick off their 2024 regular season against the Houston Texans, the same team that ended their 2023 season.
So far, the team has held two practices this week ahead of Week 1, and two key starters have missed both.
Josh Downs, WR
Josh Downs suffered a high-ankle sprain early in August after a really strong start to training camp. As a result, he missed the rest of training camp and the preseason, and now his status for Week 1 is up in the air.
Head coach Shane Steichen hasn't ruled Downs out just yet. While the second-year WR hasn't been practicing, he has been working out individually with trainers. Downs is tough as nails, and he showed it last year during the team's game in Germany when he suited up and played through injury. Downs has one more practice to test his ankle ahead of the regular season opener. But I would expect him to be limited even if he finds a way to be active on Sunday.
Matt Gay, K
Matt Gay struggled during the preseason, but there was no reason to believe he wouldn't be active for Week 1. But after a shocking surgery due to him suffering a hernia, his status is now in doubt. He has missed both practices, which could lead to Spencer Shrader making his NFL debut.
