According to the Indianapolis Star’s Stephen Holder, Indianapolis Colts pass rusher Trent Cole was visibly working with the rehabilitation staff during Thursday’s practice:
Could be indicative of nothing, but saw Trent Cole at #Colts practice today working w rehab staff. Hadn't seen that before. Possible return?
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) November 17, 2016
The 34 year old veteran was placed on injured reserve in late September for a lingering back injury. However, NFL rules now allow for one player placed on injured reserve to return to the active roster (assuming he’s been on injured reserve for at least 6 weeks), which the Colts have yet to utilize this season.
It’s interesting because even Cole previously suggested on his social media account that he could return to the Colts pending significant progress in his recovery:
A chance to come back depending on recovery. https://t.co/VY6t6J6pKa
— Trent Cole (@Pro_Hunt58) October 6, 2016
There’s another question of whether such a roster maneuver would really matter.
While Cole still carries key name recognition, he only has 3 sacks in 16 games with the Colts. Currently recovering from a significant injury in his 12th NFL season, it’s fair to question just how much the veteran pass rusher has left in the tank.
The 6’3″, 270 pound outside linebacker appeared in 2 games for the Colts this season, recording 3 tackles before being shut down for what initially looked like the season.
That being said, Cole is clearly working toward a return–even if it actually doesn’t happen.
If Cole did come back, he’d figure to join Erik Walden, Robert Mathis, and Curt Maggitt in the pass rushing rotation–likely making either Lavar Edwards or Chris Carter expendable.
Otherwise, Cole is in the last year of his Colts contract and is highly unlikely to return–perhaps having even played his last snap in the NFL after consecutive disappointing seasons.