Colts Get Good News on 2 Stars Ahead of Texans Tilt

There's a positive outlook on two vital Indianapolis Colts stars playing against the Texans.

Nov 5, 2023; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (99) reacts in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The Indianapolis Colts had another long list of injuries to report from Wednesday's practice ahead of the week eight showdown with the Houston Texans.

Wednesday's practice report for #INDvsHOU. pic.twitter.com/2NHFcicvWp

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 23, 2024

The positive news from this practice is that linebacker E.J. Speed (knee) practiced after missing the week seven tilt against the Miami Dolphins. Also, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was designated to return to practice from injured reserve (ankle) in a limited capacity, giving Indy hopes that he can suit up to help the run defense against Joe Mixon (159 rushing yards in week one vs. Colts).

Joining Buckner is star running back Jonathan Taylor (ankle), who dealt with the same injury. If Taylor can be involved in even a limited capacity against the Texans, it will benefit quarterback Anthony Richardson and help his time dealing with a stout Houston defense.

What happens next for the Colts? Don't miss out on any news and analysis! Take a second and sign up for our free newsletter and get breaking Colts news delivered to your inbox daily!

As for who didn't practice, wide receivers Josh Downs (groin, toe) and Michael Pittman Jr. (back) sat out. Both injuries are something to monitor for the duo of pass-catchers, but they've also been dealing with these setbacks for weeks. Also, tackle Braden Smith (knee) and center Ryan Kelly (calf) will push to play on Sunday. Lastly, linebacker Jaylon Carlies (fibula, shoulder) might miss some time after leaving Sunday's contest with an injury, so his exclusion is expected.

The Colts have been playing banged up for most of the 2024 season. Despite this, they're 4-3 and second in the division to the Texans. Indianapolis can't afford to fall to 1-3 in the AFC South if they have aspirations to steal the divisional title. We'll see if the Colts can get some of their biggest playmakers back from injury for a critical battle on Sunday at NRG Stadium.

---

Want more Colts content? Check out the latest episode of the Horseshoe Huddle Podcast!

Follow Horseshoe Huddle on Facebook and X; subscribe on YouTube for multiple Colts live-stream podcasts per week.