Indianapolis Colts right tackle Braden Smith (knee) had surgery on the knee that had him hobbled for much of last season, according to general manager Chris Ballard. The Colts are hoping for a much healthier 2024 season out of Smith after he missed seven games in 2023 due to the injury. The former second-round selection in 2018 out of Auburn has had his fair share of injury concerns in his six seasons in the NFL, but the Colts are hoping his recent surgery will make his knee injury a thing of the past heading into the 2024 campaign. The 27-year-old offensive lineman has two years left on his four-year, $70 million deal.
Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Braden Smith (foot) has been ruled out for Week 2. He was unable to practice all week long and could be replaced at right tackle by Matt Pryor, according to the team's official depth chart. The former second-round pick logged 14 games and an 86 percent snap share in 2020. His absence could hurt the Colts' ground and air attacks, though not enough to drastically impact fantasy rankings or lineups.
Indianapolis Colts right tackle Braden Smith has been ruled out for Week 16 against the Steelers after he was put on the Reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday. Left tackle Anthony Castonzo (ankle) was also downgraded to out. Head coach Frank Reich wouldn't say who would start at the bookends on the offensive line against a Pittsburgh defense that leads the league with 47 sacks in 2020. All-Pro right guard Quenton Nelson could slide to quarterback Philip Rivers' blind side after playing a few snaps there two weeks ago. Other options include Chaz Green, Will Holden and J'Marcus Webb. This is certainly a development to watch for those planning on using Rivers against a very tough Steelers Defense. Temper your expectations for the aging quarterback this weekend.
Braden Smith Could Start At Right Tackle For Colts
The Indianapolis Colts drafted two rookies this offseason, and it's possible that both will be starters. The Colts run game has been next to non-existent in recent years. With Marlon Mack, multiple rookies and veteran Robert Turbin in the mix, there is some potential in the backfield. Quarterback Andrew Luck would also appreciate a line upgrade, as he's been one of the most sacked quarterbacks in his career. With more time to throw the ball, he can reclaim some of that hype he was building early in his career. Braden Smith represents what could be an upgrade over their current right tackle situation. If he performs well through the rest of the preseason, two rookies should be in this team's starting five.
