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Indianapolis Colts: Henry Anderson Not Ready by Week 1?

By Kyle Nishida

Indianapolis Colts might not have defensive tackle Henry Anderson when they play the Detroit Lions in Week 1. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts might not have defensive tackle Henry Anderson when they play the Detroit Lions in Week 1. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Wednesday, Indianapolis Colts’ owner Jim Irsay gave an update on Henry Anderson, who is recovering from an ACL tear. It sounds like Anderson will not be ready to start the 2016 NFL season.

Irsay did not get into full specifics, but he did let the media know just how well Anderson’s recovery is progressing.

"“Obviously, we’re looking for Henry Anderson to come back, and he’s been progressing from that injury. It may not be for Week 1, but we certainly hope it’s going to be early-season.”"

Anderson suffered torn his ACL in the Colts’ 27-24 victory over the Denver Broncos in Week 9 of last season. He has been working hard to get his knee back to full strength since then, but apparently, he still might not be ready to play by Week 1.

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This news may come as a surprise to some people because reports up until this point suggested Anderson would be back before the start of season. However, knee injuries are always tricky, and every NFL team is usually cautious about letting players return from knee injuries before they are ready.

It is important to note the start of the NFL season is still three months away. A lot of things can change from now to then. Anderson’s knee could suddenly improve faster than expected, or he could suffer a setback.

If nothing changes, the Indianapolis Colts are well-equipped to play without him to start the season. They currently have enough depth to make up for his absence early in the season.

Kendall Langford and David Parry are projected to be starters on the defensive line again. Meanwhile, players like T.Y. McGill, Zach Kerr and Kelcy Quarles have proven to be nice rotation players for them.

Also, the Colts drafted nose tackle Hassan Ridgeway, who should be an immediate contributor for them. Plus, they have veteran Arthur Jones, who will be ready to play by training camp.

The Colts have solid players on their defensive line even without Anderson. However, they obviously would like to have Anderson back sooner rather than later.

Next: Colts: Takeaways From Day Two of Minicamp

Whatever the case may be, the Indianapolis Colts will be very cautious with Anderson because they know how much talent he has when he is fully healthy.

Also, it is nice to hear some clarity about Anderson’s rehab after hearing nothing but speculation up until this point. The Indianapolis Colts’ first game is at home against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, September 11th.

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