The Colts fell to 0-2 in the preseason after a narrow 23-19 loss to the Packers, a defeat that came down to the final play.
But injuries continued to be a major storyline. With starters such as Kenny Moore II, Nick Cross and Bernhard Raimann held out as they nurse their own issues, more than five different Colts picked up knocks against Green Bay.
Safety Hunter Wohler was the first to leave with a foot injury. The rookie standout had led the team in tackles (nine) against the Ravens last week, giving Daniel Scott a chance to prove himself.
Two offensive tackles left the game in quick succession to follow. Braden Smith picked up a groin injury and didn’t return while Blake Freeland appeared to have suffered a significant leg injury as he was carted off the field with an air cast on his right leg. Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed he suffered a fractured leg.
All of a sudden, the Colts tackle depth went from solid to disappointing.
Running back Tyler Goodson, who had been looking forward to playing against his former team, suffered an elbow injury and was seen walking down the tunnel at Lucas Oil Stadium with a brace. Goodson did have a strong day, however, scoring the lone Colts touchdown of the day.
Jacob Phillips (bicep) and Johnathan Edwards (concussion) were ruled out in the fourth quarter. Standout rookie pass rusher JT Tuimoloau briefly left with an arm injury but was able to return to the action.
As the injuries piled up, the several spots on the Colts depth chart began to run dry. Expect general manager Chris Ballard to take a look at bringing in some new faces at offensive tackle especially, as the remaining healthy options have just three games of NFL experience between the three of them.
Regardless, Indianapolis needs to get healthy, and fast. At least eight starters are dealing with some sort of ailment with just one more preseason game to go before Indianapolis hosts the Dolphins to open the season Sept. 7.