Alec Pierce, one of the most reliable wide receivers on the Indianapolis Colts team, was injured in the first half of their loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 15. It quickly was announced that he had suffered a concussion, and would enter the league's concussion protocol.
The question soon became whether or not he would be eligible to play in the Week 16 game against the Tennessee Titans, a divisional rival for the Colts. The game is a must-win for the Colts if they plan to keep their playoff hopes alive - but unfortunately, they'll be doing so without Pierce, as well as one of their key defenders.
In a press release, the Colts announced that Pierce, as well as linebacker E.J. Speed, will not be playing on Sunday. Pierce was able to practice on Friday, but only in a red no-contact jersey.
Losing Pierce will be a huge blow for the Colts; he leads the league in yards per reception, and has been one of the top playmakers -- particularly downfield -- for the Colts offense. Speed was also ruled out, though he did not appear to be injured during the Broncos' game. He was one of the standout players during that game, and has been one of the league-leaders in tackles this season. It will be a huge blow to the defense to lose Speed, even though the Colts are predicted to beat the Titans. Juju Brents, who has been on injured reserve for most of the season, has been practicing this week, but head coach Shane Steichen said it will be difficult for him to be able to play Sunday. Other members of the defense -- Zaire Franklin, DeForest Buckner, and Grover Stewart -- did not practice Friday, but that has not been unusual, and is to give the defenders the chance to rest before the game.
Other players, meanwhile, will be returning. Steichen said center Ryan Kelly and linebacker Jaylon Carlies will both be active for Sunday.