The Colts head into their Week 13 matchup against the Houston Texans with a relatively clean bill of health and a few roster tweaks that reflect where the team stands heading into the season’s final stretch.
One of the more notable moves is the elevation of veteran defensive tackle Chris Wormley from the practice squad to the active roster. That came at the expense of Eric Johnson II, who will be inactive for this one. Wormley’s call-up adds a bit of veteran muscle to the defensive front, which has been adjusting in the absence of star lineman DeForest Buckner, who remains on injured reserve.
Outside of that, the Colts’ inactives list doesn’t bring many surprises. For the second straight week, the same five players will be sitting out: cornerback Johnathan Edwards, running back D.J. Giddens, safety Reuben Lowery III, tight end Will Mallory, and offensive tackle Luke Tenuta.
The tight end situation is worth a closer look. Will Mallory remains inactive, but rookie Tyler Warren is not on the list-an encouraging sign that the Colts’ top rookie tight end is expected to play. Warren’s availability adds another dimension to an offense that’s been steadily finding its rhythm.
As for the running backs, D.J. Giddens continues to be a healthy scratch.
It’s a tough pill for the rookie, who started the season as the primary backup to Jonathan Taylor. But after some early struggles, the Colts have leaned more heavily on the veteran presence of Ameer Abdullah and the speed and versatility of Tyler Goodson.
Both backs offer more in the passing game, which seems to be the direction the Colts are leaning in situational packages. Giddens still has upside, but for now, he’s watching from the sidelines as he works through the rookie adjustment phase.
In terms of health, the Colts are in a better spot than most teams this late in the year. Linebacker Jaylon Carlies remains out with an ankle injury, and Buckner’s absence continues to loom large, but overall, this is a roster that’s held up well through the grind of the season. The hope is that both Carlies and Buckner can return soon, giving the defense a boost as the playoff race tightens.
With Houston in town and the AFC South picture still very much in play, every roster decision matters. And while Sunday’s inactives don’t bring shockwaves, they do tell a story-one of a team that’s finding its identity, leaning on experience, and keeping its young talent in development mode for now.