Injured players who will step up for the Colts

There were plenty of injuries to be had at different points of the season last year for this team. But with a new season on the horizon, these guys will step up after being mostly injured last season.

Injuries are a part of the game. They always have been and always will be. It’s up to a team to build enough depth to be able to navigate these injuries and keep their squad winning. The Colts had to learn that last season, as several different guys went down at various points.

Two of their rookies went down before the season even started. Deon Cain tore his ACL in the first preseason game and never played a down as a rookie. Tyquan Lewis tore a ligament in his toe and missed the first half of the season. Both of these guys were expected to take key roles.

Lewis did come back and played some meaningful snaps last year. He ended up winning the starting position at defensive end because the team was so impressed. Expect him to step up in a big way next year either at defense end or defensive tackle depending on how they use Justin Houston.

Cain never got to show the potential he flashed during training camp. But after a full season of rehab, he should be good to go for this season. Cain could be either the number two or number three guy on the receiving corp depending on how Devin Funchess plays.

Jack Doyle is another guy who was hurt for most of the season. He ended up with a hip and a kidney injury and missed the majority of the year. But having him back is monstrous for this team. He is a reliable receiver and a great lead blocker. It will be great to have their utility man back.

All of these players should have a very good 2019 season ahead of them. And that should propel the Colts deeper into the playoffs than they got in 2018.