Colts Reportedly ‘Still Expect’ Andrew Luck to Play on TNF Despite Re-Signing Johnson

According to ESPN’s Ed Werder, the Indianapolis Colts are still expect starting quarterback Andrew Luck to play on Thursday Night Football against the Houston Texans despite re-signing backup quarterback Josh Johnson today:

Oct 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) watches the Colts warm up before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Johnson’s signing today has led many to question whether Luck will be healthy enough to go on Thursday night.

However, it appears his signing is more of a precaution to Matt Hasselbeck‘s potential unavailability as Luck’s backup, having not practiced this week because of illness.

On Tuesday, Luck indicated that he has been “preparing to start and play” this week in practice:

"“Yeah, preparing to start and play, and again, have a chance to go up against a really good football team in the Texans, so that’s the preparation mindset,” said Luck."

Johnson’s signing today was likely just insurance in case one of Hasselbeck or Luck isn’t available for Thursday night’s game. Chances are at least one of them will be however. The Colts just want to ensure that the team has at least two available quarterbacks against the Texans.

Right now, signs are pointing that Luck will get the start on Thursday night. However, based off of last week, that’s certainly subject to change depending on how Luck feels on gameday.

Regardless, the Colts will have to execute better than the team did last weekend against the Jacksonville Jaguars, as facing the Texans on the road has always been a tough task.

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