Colts Inactives vs. Broncos: T.Y. Hilton is active

The Indianapolis Colts announced their inactive players for today’s matchup against the Denver Broncos:

"WR Phillip DorsettOT Denzelle GoodOG Todd HerremansILB Nate IrvingRB Josh RobinsonCB Josh ThomasDL Billy Winn"

Of course, the biggest surprise being that wideout T.Y. Hilton, who’s suffered all week from a sprained foot, is actually active for today’s game. Hilton had been unable to practice all week and entered today “as a longshot” to play. However, it looks as though he tested out the foot earlier today and is going to try to give it a go.

Nov 2, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Billy Winn (99) recovers a fumble in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Hilton would provide the Colts receiving game with a significant boost, as the team will be facing a stingy Denver Broncos secondary that features the likes of Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr. at cornerback. Having Hilton in the fold will give Luck his go-to target, while providing the Colts with their most proven deep threat.

Otherwise, no real surprises with the exception of defensive lineman Billy Winn, who had not been listed previously on this week’s injury report and looks to be a healthy scratch.

The 4th-year veteran has been a pleasant surprise for the Colts so far as one of their rotational defensive lineman since being acquired in a trade from the Cleveland Browns. In 7 games with the Colts, Winn has 11 tackles and a pivotal fumble recovery last week. According to ProFootballFocus (subscription), Winn has a +1.0 overall grade on the season including a +2.5 grade against the run.

It’s possible that with Peyton Manning coming to town, the Colts are looking for more pass rush out of their defensive lineman, and that’s why Zach Kerr is apparently receiving the nod over Winn barring something unforeseen. Winn is a natural run stuffer by trade and offers very little in the pass rush department.

It’s also worth noting that center Khaled Holmes is active, but will assume backup duties behind Jonotthan Harrison as he’s still not quite 100%–having only practiced on a limited basis earlier this week because of a neck injury.