TY Hilton Looking Doubtful for Sunday

The Colts host the undefeated Broncos on Sunday, but could be facing the best defense in the league without their most dynamic receiver. TY Hilton was out at practice once again with a mid-foot sprain, suffered in Monday night’s loss.

Hilton has been seen in a walking boot every since the end of the Panthers game and reportedly had an MRI earlier in the week. There hasn’t been any indication about the severity of the injury, but it sounds like the coaches are holding out some hope he could suit up this week.

There has already been enough turmoil for the Colts offense this week without losing Hilton for a game. New offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski might have to find a new way to stretch the Broncos defense without a deep threat. Hilton’s backup, and possible clone, Phillip Dorsett will be out as he recovers from surgery to repair his ankle.

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Facing a Denver defense that just held

to 77 passing yards was already going to be difficult enough, but now the Colts could be left with

,

,

, and

at receiver. I’d expect Chudzinski to lean heavily on the tight ends, something that hasn’t happened much this season.

While Hilton’s numbers might be down this season (largely due to Andrew Luck‘s struggles) he still leads the team in targets (82) and receptions (38), as well as plays of 20-plus yards. He also leads in receiving yards per game by a wide margin (almost 30 more per game than the next man, Moncrief).

Without Hilton, the Colts won’t have a deep threat and will be forced to rely on shorter, quicker routes (which might actually be a good thing). Hilton has been Luck’s favorite target the past two seasons and has a high level of comfort with him, something he doesn’t have with other options.

If it comes down to playing Hilton, and possibly further injuring his foot, or resting him for what would end up being two weeks with the Bye coming up, I’d vote for the latter option to keep him healthy for a late season push.