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Indianapolis Colts enter a crucial Week 16 showdown against the San Francisco 49ers with a lengthy injury report that could shape the outcome at Lucas Oil Stadium. With playoff positioning at stake, the Colts have released their latest updates, highlighting several notable absences and key players whose availability remains uncertain heading into Monday night’s 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff.
DeForest Buckner status draws attention
One of the biggest concerns for Indianapolis revolves around defensive cornerstone DeForest Buckner. The veteran defensive tackle is officially listed as questionable after missing practice due to a neck injury.
Buckner has been a consistent presence along the interior defensive line this season, tallying 4.0 sacks and 9.0 tackles for loss across 14 games.
His potential absence would be a significant blow against a 49ers offense that thrives on physicality and balance.
Indianapolis Colts confirm multiple players ruled out
The Colts have already ruled out several players, thinning depth on both sides of the ball. Starting offensive tackle Bernhard Raimann will miss the contest with an elbow injury, while quarterback Anthony Richardson is sidelined due to an eye issue after limited practice participation. The receiving corps also takes a hit with Anthony Gould unavailable because of a foot injury.
Defensively, Indianapolis Colts will be without cornerback Sauce Gardner, who did not practice all week due to a calf injury. Safety Daniel Scott is also ruled out despite full participation in practice, while injuries continue to test the team’s secondary depth.
Positive signs from key contributors
Despite the long injury list, there are encouraging developments for Indianapolis. Several starters logged full practice participation and appear on track to play.
Quenton Nelson, a key figure on the offensive line, practiced fully while managing a wrist issue. Wide receivers Alec Pierce and Josh Downs also returned to full participation, providing stability to the passing attack.
On defense, linebackers Germaine Pratt and Zaire Franklin headline a group that appears ready despite earlier concerns.
Franklin, who was given a rest designation, remains one of the team’s most productive defenders with over 100 tackles this season. The Colts also received good news regarding Grover Stewart, who practiced fully after being listed for rest.
Depth management ahead of primetime clash
With 16 players listed on the injury report, roster management and late-game decisions will be crucial for head coach Shane Steichen.
Indianapolis Colts will continue monitoring questionable players, including Buckner, until final inactives are announced closer to kickoff.
As Indianapolis prepares to host one of the NFC’s top teams, health and availability could prove just as decisive as execution on the field.
Monday night will test not only the Colts’ depth but also their ability to adapt under pressure in a pivotal late-season matchup.
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