Despite being without three key defensive starters, the Colts still beat the Chiefs. Now the bye week allows for those players to possibly return in week 7.
The Colts are in a much-needed bye week after a huge statement win against the Kansas City Chiefs. Darius Leonard has missed three games since experiencing concussion-like symptoms after the Colts’ week 2 win against the Tennessee Titans. The reigning first-team All-Pro and Defensive Rookie of the Year announced on Instagram that he has cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol.
Leonard’s presence will provide the Colts’ defense with much-needed help against the run. Opposing running backs have been averaging 5.1 yards per carry against the Colt’s defense, 5th most in the NFL.
It is also possible that the Colts get their starting safeties back after the bye week. Strong safety Clayton Geathers also missed week 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a concussion. Geathers must still pass the concussion protocol before he can return to practice. Free safety Malik Hooker, who tore the meniscus in his left knee against Atlanta in week 3 believes that he may be able to return as soon as week 7 against the Houston Texans.
The bye week will also allow wide receiver T.Y. Hilton some much-needed time to recover from a quad injury. Hilton missed week 4 against the Oakland Raiders but played through the injury against the Chiefs. Marlon Mack was a game-time decision heading into the Sunday night game against the Chiefs because of an ankle injury but he also played through it and had a huge game. Both offensive weapons will have time to get fully healthy.
After pulling an upset over one of the best teams in the league, the Colts will get to rest before facing a Houston Texans team that put up 53 points against the Atlanta Falcons in week 5. As the Colts rest in week 6, the Texans will not be as lucky. They must take on a Kansas City Chiefs team that will be determined to bounce back after suffering their first loss. Whatever that result may be, the Colts will be ready to add more separation in the AFC South standings.