According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Indianapolis Colts cornerback Vontae Davis is expected to miss at least the first month of the regular season with an ankle injury:
Why Indy signed Antonio Cromartie: CB Vontae Davis has ligament damage in ankle, expected to miss at least first month of season, per source
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 23, 2016
It explains why the Colts worked out and signed veteran Antonio Cromartie on Monday, as the team could desperately use a proven cornerback with starting experience in Davis’ absence.
Still, Cromartie isn’t the shutdown cornerback he once was, so Davis’ loss will be a major one for the Colts defense during the beginning of the regular season. That being said, Cromartie can at least provide the Colts with a reliable replacement if he’s healthy and can regain some of his prior form, coming off a disappointing return season with the New York Jets.
Nevertheless, it’s a tough break for Davis and the Colts, who’s coming off a bit of a down season in his own right for his normally high standards–despite making a consecutive Pro Bowl appearance.
Davis battled injuries last season, which may have hindered his coverage ability.
Nevertheless, he started in all 16 games for the Colts and was once again their best player in the secondary.
It’s worth noting that the Colts lockdown cornerback underwent minor foot surgery in the offseason, so the current ankle injury isn’t the only lower leg ailment he’s dealt with recently.
The Colts also signed Patrick Robinson this offseason, which should also help lessen the loss of Davis for the time being.
However, it’s looking increasingly likely that the team will have two new cornerbacks to start the opener with both Robinson and now Cromartie as the frontrunners to assume such starting roles.
GOD give his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. #BLEEDBLUE
— Vontae Davis (@vontaedavis) August 23, 2016