News Summary
The Indianapolis Colts are actively working to strengthen their secondary due to injuries and retirements ahead of their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos. They are considering signings of veterans including Kendall Fuller and Lewis Cine to bolster their defensive backfield. Key players are injured, prompting opportunities for rookies like Johnathan Edwards. The team’s defense has shown resilience despite setbacks, and the coaching staff is strategizing to manage the challenges posed by injuries against a competitive Broncos offense. The game approach emphasizes adapting to roster limitations while maintaining offensive strength.
Indianapolis – The Indianapolis Colts are actively addressing weaknesses in their secondary as the team contends with multiple injuries ahead of their upcoming match against the Denver Broncos. Veteran cornerback Xavien Howard recently announced his retirement, and slot cornerback Mike Hilton is dealing with a shoulder injury sustained during the game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This situation has prompted the Colts to work out potential signings including cornerback Kendall Fuller and safety Lewis Cine.
Kendall Fuller, previously on the Colts’ radar last season but signed with the Miami Dolphins, has a notable record in his nine-year career. In the 2022 season alone, he recorded 50 tackles, seven pass breakups, and made 11 starts. Fuller’s career totals include 536 tackles, 16 interceptions with two returned for touchdowns, and 82 pass breakups. If signed, he is expected to strengthen the cornerback position, which has seen a reduction in depth due to injuries. His experience could be vital, potentially elevating him to the 53-man roster as the Colts prepare for the challenges posed by the Broncos’ offense.
On the other hand, Lewis Cine, a first-round pick from the University of Georgia in 2022, has not yet made a significant impact on the defensive side of the ball. The Colts’ safety position currently features Nick Cross, Cam Bynum, Rodney Thomas II, and Trey Washington. This existing depth might limit Cine’s ability to secure a pivotal role immediately, should the team decide to bring him on board.
Notably, the Colts’ defense has shown remarkable strength this season, having allowed just six points against the Raiders, which marked a season best. However, with key injuries to cornerbacks Kenny Moore II and Hilton, the need to bring in additional talent becomes crucial as they face off against the Broncos, particularly against receivers like Courtland Sutton.
As the Colts gear up for their game against Denver, cornerbacks Charvarius Ward (concussion) and Jaylon Jones (hamstring) have already been ruled out, prompting the likelihood of undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards making his NFL debut. Mekhi Blackmon is expected to start in place of Ward. Additionally, there is uncertainty surrounding Laiatu Latu, the Colts’ leading edge rusher, due to a hamstring injury. The team is monitoring both Ward and Latu’s progress closely as they approach the matchup.
Head coach Shane Steichen has communicated concerns about the injuries in the secondary, emphasizing the potential challenges in managing the Broncos’ offense. In terms of strategy, if Latu is unable to participate, the Colts might opt to activate second-round pick JT Tuimoloau, who has been inactive since Week 1.
Despite the issues in the secondary, the Colts have largely maintained a healthy offensive lineup, which they will rely on to secure enough points against the Broncos. The upcoming game presents a critical opportunity for the Colts to address these setbacks while striving to maintain their competitive edge in the division.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Colts Show Interest in Veteran Cornerback
- IndyStar: Colts Injury Report
- Sports Illustrated: Colts Early Injury Report
- Horseshoe Heroes: Colts Injury News Before Week 2 Showdown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Indianapolis Colts
- Google Search: Indianapolis Colts News
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
