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The Indianapolis Colts enter wild-card weekend reasonably healthy on one side of the ball. Philip Rivers had battled a toe injury for over a month, and while the famously immobile quarterback rarely tucks the ball and runs, the issue did appear to affect his performance at times during the final stretch of the regular season.
But while Rivers has come off the team’s official injury report, significant concerns remain on defense.
Colts final injury report
Out: Will Holden (ankle), Rock Ya-Sin (concussion)
Doubtful: N/A
Questionable: DeForest Buckner (ankle)
Notable players on in-week report who were removed from final: Jonathan Taylor (shoulder), Philip Rivers (toe)
How injuries may affect Colts vs. Bills matchup
Few defenses can account for the loss of a starting cornerback, and the Colts don’t look like an exception. Rock Ya-Sin had played well for the unit in December, especially during a standout performance against the Las Vegas Raiders (two receptions allowed for 8 yards). Given the Buffalo Bills’ fine collection of pass catchers, Ya-Sin’s absence will create at least one highly disadvantageous matchup for Indianapolis.
Officially questionable, DeForest Buckner returned to practice Thursday on a limited basis and appears to have a chance to play. His value to the Colts seems fairly clear, as the defensive tackle won AFC Defensive Player of the Month honors for December. If he doesn’t suit up, it creates massive problems for Indianapolis’ pass rush.