Despite an announcement from head coach Shane Steichen indicating that center Ryan Kelly and linebacker Jaylon Carlies will be returning from injured reserve, neither will be playing in the Indianapolis Colts' matchup against the Denver Broncos for Week 15.
James Boyd, who covers the Colts for the Athletic, tweeted that both players will remain on injured reserve, and have been declared out for today's game.
The #Colts say starting C Ryan Kelly (right knee) and rookie LB Jaylon Carlies (fibula/shoulder) will remain on IR and have been downgraded to OUT for tomorrow’s game against the #Broncos.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) December 14, 2024
DE Tyquan Lewis (rib) is now on the injury report and is QUESTIONABLE to play tomorrow.
Steichen opened the 21-day return window for Kelly and Carlies on Wednesday, meaning they were eligible to return to practice, and could potentially play against the Broncos. And while both did practice, it is not known why they are not yet returning to the starting lineup.
Kelly was placed on injured reserve in November with a calf injury. Tanor Bortolini has been starting at center in his place, and will start today against the Broncos. Kelly started 121 games for the Colts, and is a four-time Pro Bowl selection. He is set to enter free agency at the end of this season, and it is rumored that the Colts view Bortolini as the future at center, and may choose to let Kelly go.
Carlies suffered an ankle injury in October, and prior to being injured, had been having a promising rookie season. Before being injured, he had played in seven games and amassed 21 tackles, one tackle for a loss, one sack, and one pass break-up.
The Colts are hoping to keep their playoff dreams alive today. If they lose to the Broncos, they technically could still make it to the playoffs, but it will be significantly more difficult. A win will make their path to the playoffs much easier, making today's game a do-or-die for Indianapolis, which has had a roller coaster of a season in 2024. The bye week gave them time to get some of their starters back at full health, but unfortunately, they will be going up against the Broncos without two of them.