The Indianapolis Colts secured their first victory of the season last week by defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team has had its share of challenges in the opening games, but running back Jonathan Taylor has emerged as a driving force.
Unfortunately, Taylor sustained a high ankle sprain during the Steelers game, casting doubt on his availability for week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although the injury isn’t deemed severe, he hasn’t practiced yet, and the Colts might opt to be cautious with their star player this week.
Colts RB Jonathan Taylor says he’s still dealing with his ankle sprain and isn’t likely to practice today. It’s not a serious injury but there is still a lot of uncertainty around his availability for Sunday in Jacksonville.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) October 3, 2024
Missing Taylor would be a significant blow for the Colts, given his impressive start to the season, where he has rushed for 349 yards and scored four touchdowns in four games.
If he’s unable to play, backup running back Trey Sermon will likely take over the starting role. So far, Sermon has had nine carries this season, totaling 24 yards and one touchdown. He’ll need to step up big time if the Colts want to secure a win against their AFC South rivals.
Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images
Colts head coach Shane Steichen provided an update on Taylor, indicating he doesn’t foresee the need to place Taylor on injured reserve. “We’ll see how the week progresses,” Steichen commented. “We’ll see how it goes.”
Despite his current situation, Taylor remains confident in his team. “You get retaped, and you try everything you can do, but we’ve got two other great backs,” he mentioned, recalling the success of Trey and ‘Goody’ against Pittsburgh last year.
The Colts are hopeful that Taylor can return for the game against Jacksonville. They need him on the field but are also wary of his long-term health, especially in early October.
It’s not just Taylor facing injury concerns; starting quarterback Anthony Richardson is also dealing with a hip injury. He exited the game against Pittsburgh early, leaving his status for Week 5 uncertain as well, putting the Colts in a tough spot.