After visiting multiple doctors over the past few days, it has been reported that Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Art Jones needs surgery to repair damaged ligaments in his ankle. Jones suffered the injury in last Saturday’s game against the St. Louis Rams.
#Colts DL Art Jones saw several docs for his ankle. With torn ligaments, there may be joint damage. They’ll know in surgery, IR is possible
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 2, 2015
#Colts DL Art Jones needs ankle surgery to repair torn ligaments, sources said. He’s a candidate for IR/designated to return — at best.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 2, 2015
The Colts lost Jones for much of last season with a high ankle sprain. It can’t be understated how important Jones is to the interior of the Colts defense, especially when it comes to defending the run. Even if the Colts can bring him back later this season, the Colts should look at all free agent options over the next few days to fill that hole.
Jones was signed in 2014 to a five year deal worth $33 million. Jones played in just eight full games (including the playoffs) last season after being hurt in the season opener. He was on the field for just 371 snaps and never played at 100 percent.
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Colts GM Ryan Grigson has taken a beating recently for many of his free agent signings and draft picks (specifically for his 2013 offseason). However he can’t be bashed when a player, with no injury history, is perpetually hurt. That shouldn’t count against a draft pick or FA pick up when injuries are a big part of the game (it likely says more about the training staff).
We currently don’t know how long Jones will be out for, but it is highly likely that we won’t see him for the first half of the season. Will Carroll, who covers injuries for FanDuel, is pesimistic about his return.
Art Jones needs surgery to repair multiple ligaments in his ankle. Hard to imagine guy in his position/size could return. @rapsheet h/t.
— Will Carroll (@injuryexpert) September 2, 2015
It still remains to be seen what sort of impact Jones will really bring to the Colts defense. We have yet to see him play when truly healthy, but he was very good with the Ravens in 2013.
Jones is certainly a candidate for IR/Designated to return, but the team will still need to figure out a stopgap for the time being.
We’ll keep you updated as we get more information on this story.