According to head coach Frank Reich, there are no new updates, but the Indianapolis Colts will continue to monitor starting safety Khari Willis and cornerback Rock Ya-Sin in the league’s concussion protocol—both of whom missed this past Sunday’s game:
“Yeah, we’ll continue to monitor those guys as they go and give you updates as we can,” Reich said.
In particular, Willis progressing through the protocol will be key, as Buffalo Bills star quarterback Josh Allen has thrown for 4,544 passing yards and 37 touchdowns on the season as part of a dangerous passing attack that also features Stefon Diggs (127 receptions for 1,535 receiving yards and 8 touchdown receptions), Gabriel Davis (7 touchdown receptions), Cole Beasley in the slot (967 receiving yards), and the speedy John Brown (13.9 ypr. avg.)
His replacement, veteran safety Tavon Wilson has had some lapses in coverage, and the Colts aren’t the same secondary without Willis solidifying the backend with his overall sure tackling, reliable coverage, and instinctive play.
Meanwhile, the Colts have been platooning both veteran T.J. Carrie and Rock Ya-Sin on the outside cornerback spot opposite Xavier Rhodes. Carrie has been playing good football this season and should draw the start. However, while Ya-Sin has had his fair share of 2nd-year struggles, he’s still an important depth piece for the Colts at outside cornerback.
The encouraging news is that the Colts did not suffer any significant injuries during Sunday’s playoff-clinching win against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
However, facing a short week, the Colts may need their secondary fully healthy to pull off the upset against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday—especially regarding Willis’ availability.
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