Indianapolis Colts News

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) underwent successful surgery to repair his Achilles, which will sideline him for six to eight months. This should give Jones the ability to get fully cleared in time for training camp next summer. Jones is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but the two sides have reportedly not been discussing a contract extension. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Colts are expected to try to re-sign Jones, but the question is at what cost. Before going down in Week 14, Jones was experiencing a bounce-back season. The 28-year-old threw for 3,101 yards, 19 touchdowns, eight interceptions, while rushing for 164 yards on 45 rushing attempts and five scores over 13 games in 2025.

Across 12 games this season, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has recorded 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. Downs has earned at least five targets in four out of his last five contests, but he's failed to crack 50 receiving yards in a game since Week 9. In Week 15, the Colts will turn to 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to replace the injured Daniel Jones (Achilles), who was lost for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Week 14. It's hard to project what Rivers will bring to the table for Downs and the Colts' pass-catchers, as Rivers has not played in an NFL game since the 2020 season. One certain thing is that Indianapolis faces a difficult matchup in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. Entering the weekend, Seattle ranks first among NFL defenses in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0). Between the tough matchup and the Colts' quarterback uncertainty, Downs should likely be avoided by fantasy managers in Week 15.

The Indianapolis Colts will start quarterback Philip Rivers on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. After coming out of retirement and signing with the Colts on Tuesday and getting a whole week of practice in, the 44-year-old signal-caller is set to play in his first game since the 2020 season. Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) practiced in full every day this week and looks like he'll back up Rivers this week, assuming he is active. The unfortunate season-ending injury to Daniel Jones (Achilles) and the fluky injury to Anthony Richardson (eye) in pre-game warmups earlier in the season have led the Colts to rely on the eight-time Pro Bowler Rivers as the starting quarterback. Rivers profiles as a desperation QB2 option in superflex leagues in a tough Week 15 matchup on the road in Seattle.

Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren is only 13 games into his career at the professional level. However, he's already established himself as one of the top tight ends in the National Football League. The 2025 No. 14 overall pick has had a few rough showings, although he still ranks among the top names at the position in several statistical areas, including receptions (60), receiving yards (699), and touchdowns (four). With Indy hoping to remain in the playoff picture, the team will need a win over Seattle on Sunday. Without question, the Seahawks have one of the most imposing defenses in the NFL, meaning it could be a difficult day for the Colts offense, especially with Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard under center in place of Daniel Jones (Achilles), who is done for at least the remainder of the 2025 campaign. Still, there aren't many tight ends with as high of a ceiling as Warren, so fantasy managers should keep him starting and hope for the best. It's also worth noting that Seattle has struggled against opposing tight ends throughout the season, giving fantasy managers a reason to stay optimistic.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (rib) practiced in full all week and doesn't carry an injury designation heading into Sunday's clash with the Seahawks. Pierce finished the 2024 campaign with seven touchdowns, a career-high. However, he has only scored twice this season. While the decline in trips to the end zone is a significant concern, he at least appears well on his way to having his best year in terms of receptions and receiving yards. With Indy desperately trying to remain in the postseason conversation, the team will look for a win over Seattle on Sunday. The Seahawks have one of the most formidable defenses in the National Football League, which would make life difficult for anyone. Yet, it may be an even tougher week for Pierce and the rest of the pass-catchers, considering Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee) will take over in place of Daniel Jones (Achilles), who will miss the remainder of the year. With that in mind, Pierce isn't the safest fantasy option by any means in Week 15, so managers might want to consider other options, especially with Jonathan Taylor rumored to be more involved than usual.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. had a down year in 2024. However, he's turned it around this season. In 13 appearances, the 28-year-old has 69 catches (94 targets) for 699 yards. While he could have a tough time surpassing his mark from the 2023 campaign (109 receptions), he has already amassed a career-high seven touchdowns. Unfortunately, the Colts have struggled of late, with the team losing their last three contests. To make matters worse, Daniel Jones went down with a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. As a result, Indy will turn to Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee), who no longer carries an injury designation, in Sunday's meeting with the Seahawks. As expected, many feel that neither player will do enough to get Indianapolis back to the top of the AFC South. With that in mind, Pittman's fantasy ceiling might be at its lowest point of the season, especially with a challenging contest on tap. Although he's still a must-start in any setup, considering he's been a top fantasy wideout, managers should expect the worst and hope for the best in Week 15.

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor has had a stellar season. The 26-year-old leads the league in several rushing categories, including yards (1,356) and touchdowns (16). He also ranks second in attempts (247), two behind James Cook III (249). At this point, Taylor appears to be well on his way to having the best season of his career. Unfortunately, the 2020 No. 41 overall pick has cooled since finding the end zone three times versus the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin back in Week 10, scoring only once in his last three appearances. With four regular-season games left on the schedule, Indianapolis is looking for a much-needed win over Seattle on Sunday in hopes of climbing back to the top of the AFC South. However, the Colts have to figure out a way to win without Daniel Jones (Achilles), who will miss the remainder of the 2025 campaign. That means Indy will turn to the recently un-retired Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee) to take over under center in Week 15. All things considered, both quarterbacks could have a tough time getting anything going against a formidable Seahawks defense, meaning Taylor may get his number called even more than usual. Granted, JT might not have the easiest day either, considering Seattle has allowed just four rushing touchdowns this season. Still, despite the challenging matchup on the horizon, Taylor remains a must-start in all season-long fantasy formats. On the other hand, DFS managers should consider alternative options.

Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks. Leonard was able to practice in full all week despite suffering a low-grade PCL sprain during last week's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was forced into action after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon. Leonard completed 18 of 29 passing attempts for 145 yards with an interception in relief of Jones and also rushed the ball twice for five yards and a touchdown on the ground. With Jones out for the year and Leonard hurt, the Colts went out and signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers this week. The Colts haven't revealed whether they'll go with Rivers or Leonard against Seattle. Given his ability to move the ball with his legs, Leonard is probably more appealing from a fantasy perspective. However, all signs are pointing to Rivers making his first NFL start since 2020 in Week 15 on the road in Seattle.

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (neck) will not be activated from Injured Reserve to play this weekend against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15, according to head coach Shane Steichen. Buckner did have his 21-day practice window opened on Wednesday, though, and he was limited on Wednesday and Thursday. If he can continue to improve going into next week, Buckner could make his return on Monday Night Football in Week 16 against the San Francisco 49ers. The struggling Colts will be without Buckner, All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner (calf), and cornerback Charvarius Ward Sr. (concussion) this Sunday for a tough road matchup against the Seahawks. Ward was placed on Injured Reserve this week after suffering his third concussion of the year. Buckner has recorded 42 total tackles and four sacks over 424 defensive snaps this season.

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen said that All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner (calf) will not play in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Gardner will miss a second straight game with a calf injury, but he's expected to return before the end of the regular season, and he could make it back as soon as Week 16 against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football on Dec. 22. The Colts paid a hefty price to land the 25-year-old defensive back from the New York Jets at the trade deadline, but he's only been able to play in three games for Indy. In 10 games this season, Gardner has 33 tackles (26 solo) and eight pass breakups. Mekhi Blackmon and Johnathan Edwards will continue to see more playing time in the Colts' defensive backfield with Gardner out. Not having Gardner against Seattle receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba this weekend could prove costly.

ESPN's Stephen Holder says that his time in the Indianapolis Colts' building this week has left him "more convinced" that 44-year-old Philip Rivers will be the team's starting quarterback for Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Holder adds that it's pretty clear that Indy is prepping Rivers to start after he came out of retirement this week to join the team. Rookie Riley Leonard (knee) has practiced in full for two straight days despite suffering a sprained PCL in Sunday's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but it looks like he'll be the backup to Rivers if he's active this weekend. Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in Week 14, putting the Colts in this situation. Rivers is an eight-time Pro Bowler, but he has not played an NFL game since 2020. Consider him a desperation QB option in superflex leagues in a very difficult matchup on the road in Seattle.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) practiced in full for the second straight day on Thursday. Leonard is reportedly batting a low-grade PCL sprain in his knee, but his ability to fully participate in practice could mean he's trending towards being active for Indianapolis' Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. With Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) done for the season after tearing his Achilles tendon, the team made waves by bringing 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement earlier this week. It's unclear at this point whether the team is planning to start Rivers or Leonard in Week 15, regardless of Leonard's health status. Either way, fantasy managers would likely be wise to avoid whoever is playing quarterback for the Colts in a tough matchup against Seattle.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (rib) was a full participant in practice on Wednesday. Pierce suffered an undisclosed injury at the end of last week's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but now we know it was a rib ailment. It doesn't appear to be anything serious with Pierce already back to being a full participant in practice. Fantasy managers should fully expect Pierce to be ready to play against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15 on Sunday on the road. His fantasy value will take a hit with quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the rest of the season. Pierce isn't as appealing with either Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee) making the start in a tough road matchup this weekend.

Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) was listed as a full practice participant on Wednesday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Leonard was considered week-to-week after suffering a Grade 1 PCL sprain in his knee following Sunday's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but a full practice on Wednesday suggests he has a real chance to play in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles on Sunday, prompting the Colts to sign 44-year-old QB Philip Rivers for insurance at the position. Anthony Richardson Sr. (eye) remains on Injured Reserve. It's unclear at this point whether it'll be Leonard or Rivers under center this weekend, and the Colts don't plan to make up their mind until later this week. Either way, Indy's offense takes a hit. Expect a lot of hand-offs to star running back Jonathan Taylor.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. (eye) was present at Wednesday's practice for the first time in weeks, James Boyd of The Athletic reports. Head coach Shane Steichen said on Monday that Richardson wouldn't be activated off Injured Reserve this week, but he also hasn't been ruled out for the season. It's a positive development for the 2023 fourth overall pick, who suffered an orbital fracture in pre-game warmups before the Colts' Week 6 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. With Daniel Jones out for the season with a torn Achilles and rookie Riley Leonard's status up in the air due to a knee injury, the Colts signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers on Tuesday, and he could start as soon as Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. Richardson is still in play to return this season, though his timeline is uncertain. His status will be worth monitoring now that he is seemingly getting closer to making a return.

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen said on Wednesday that rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee), who has a Grade 1 PCL sprain, will practice this week, but his status for the Week 15 game on Sunday against the hosting Seattle Seahawks is up in the air, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. "We'll see," Steichen said on Leonard's status. Daniel Jones (Achilles) is done for the year, and Anthony Richardson Sr. (eye) remains on Injured Reserve, so the Colts went out and signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers to their practice squad this week. If Leonard is unable to play in Seattle this weekend, it's very possible that Rivers will get the start in his first NFL action since the 2020 season. PCL sprains typically sideline players for multiple weeks, so it would be a bit of a surprise if Leonard made the start for Indy in Seattle. Brett Rypien is the only other QB on the Colts' roster at the moment. The 23-year-old Leonard went 18-for-29 passing for 145 yards and an interception while also running in a TD in place of Jones in last week's loss to the Jaguars.

The Indianapolis Colts have signed quarterback Brett Rypien to the active 53-man roster from the practice squad, according to the team's official website. Rypien joined the Colts' practice squad in Week 7 after third-year quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. (eye) was placed on Injured Reserve. The 29-year-old signal-caller was in line to be the Colts' starter after Daniel Jones (Achilles) suffered a season-ending torn Achilles and rookie Riley Leonard (knee) suffered a Grade 1 PCL sprain in Week 14. However, the Colts signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement on Tuesday, and he is expected to start for the Colts as soon as this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. Rypien will likely serve as a backup behind Rivers or Leonard (if he is healthy enough to play in Week 15). If the journeyman signal-caller does wind up starting, Rypien would only be worth fantasy consideration in deep superflex and two-QB leagues.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers has a "very real chance" of starting versus the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15 after a crazy turn of events for the Colts in Week 14, when Daniel Jones (Achilles) and Riley Leonard (knee) both got injured, leaving the Colts with no options at the quarterback position. Additionally, Anthony Richardson (eye) is on Injured Reserve. Jones is out for the year, and Leonard appears to be in danger of missing Week 15, although nothing is confirmed. Regardless, that leaves a 44-year-old man Rivers signing with the practice squad earlier this week after a successful workout with the organization on Monday, and according to NFL Insider Ian Rapaport, Rivers has a "real chance" at starting on Sunday. Rivers' final season was in 2020, where he threw for 4,169 passing yards with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Ultimately, fantasy managers need to stay away from this situation, as most Week 15 managers are in the fantasy playoffs, and he won't even be a decent QB2 start in superflex leagues.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs hasn't been a big fantasy factor this season, recording 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. After a promising sophomore campaign last year, Downs hasn't been emphasized with three other talented pass-catchers in the Colts' offense, plus a lean towards the run with a superstar back Jonathan Taylor. With quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the season and 44-year-old Philip Rivers expected to be the team's starter moving forward, it's possible that Downs' opportunities will increase with Rivers primarily operating in the short area of the field. The 24-year-old's fantasy upside is still capped while being limited to routes in three-wide receiver sets. Downs still profiles as a deep-league flex option for a tough Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, but his floor is probably lower now with Jones done for the year.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers has a "very real chance" of starting versus the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15. The 44-year-old signed with the team's practice squad earlier this week after a successful workout with the organization on Monday. With Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the year, Rivers appears to have a legitimate chance at taking snaps this upcoming weekend. Rivers hasn't played in the NFL since the 2020 season with the Colts. He threw for 4,169 passing yards with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions during that season while leading Indy to the playoffs. Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) would be the next man up, but he suffered a Grade 1 PCL sprain in Week 14. With his availability up in the air, Rivers and Brett Rypien are the only healthy options on the Colts' roster. Rivers is probably the preferred choice given his experience in head coach Shane Steichen's offensive scheme. This is a strange situation, but the Colts are desperate for a QB with the injuries piling up under center. Rivers would be a desperation QB2 play in superflex leagues if he makes the start.