4 Colts Players Out for Week 18 vs. Texans

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Key Players Out for Colts' Week 18 Matchup

The Indianapolis Colts have confirmed that four players will be sidelined for their upcoming Week 18 game against the Houston Texans. This development adds to the challenges the team faces as they prepare for a crucial matchup in the final week of the regular season.

Sauce Gardner: Calf Injury Keeps Him Off the Field

Cornerback Sauce Gardner is among those ruled out due to a calf injury. This marks his second absence in recent weeks, as he had previously been sidelined for three weeks before making a return last week. However, the injury has resurfaced, and Gardner will not be available for Sunday's game. His absence could impact the Colts' defensive strategy, especially in coverage against the Texans' offense.

Will Mallory: Lung Injury Adds Complexity

Tight end Will Mallory is also out for the game due to a lung-related injury. Head coach Shane Steichen described the nature of the injury as "hard to explain," highlighting the unusual circumstances surrounding it. With Mallory unavailable, the Colts are left with only two healthy tight ends on their 53-man roster—Tyler Warren and Mo Alie-Cox. This shortage could force the team to rely more heavily on its wide receivers or adjust its offensive approach accordingly.

Anthony Richardson and Daniel Scott: Injured Reserve Status

Quarterback Anthony Richardson and safety Daniel Scott are both expected to remain on injured reserve for the remainder of the season. Richardson suffered an eye injury, while Scott is dealing with a knee issue. Coach Steichen made the decision to rule Richardson out early in the week, indicating that neither player is close to returning to action.

Players Available for Sunday's Game

On the positive side, several players who were inactive in Week 17 will be available for the Week 18 matchup. Tanor Bortolini, Dalton Tucker, and JT Tuimoloau are all expected to play after recovering from their respective injuries. Bortolini is dealing with a concussion, Tucker has a shoulder issue, and Tuimoloau is working through an oblique problem. Their return should provide depth and flexibility to the Colts' roster.

Final Thoughts

With key players missing from the lineup, the Colts will need to adapt quickly to maintain their competitive edge. The team's coaching staff will likely make strategic adjustments to compensate for the injuries, focusing on utilizing the available talent effectively. Fans can expect to see a mix of younger players and veterans stepping up to fill the gaps left by the injured starters.

As the season approaches its conclusion, every game becomes increasingly important. The Colts will look to finish strong, even with the challenges posed by these injuries. The performance of the remaining players will be critical in determining the team's success in the final week of the regular season.