The Indianapolis Colts will be without a number of key starters against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but some positive news is that both Braden Smith and Sam Womack will be available.
Smith was listed as questionable on Friday after not practicing on Wednesday or Friday this past week with a knee injury. Womack, meanwhile, practiced all week but was added to the injury report on Saturday with an illness and was listed as questionable at the time.
Smith has missed some practice time over the last few weeks but has been available on Sundays. Over the last three games, Smith has allowed only two pressures and one sack, which includes matching up with Pittsburgh’s TJ Watt this past Sunday.
He also ranks 22nd in PFF’s run-blocking grade out of 82 eligible tackles.
Womack was splitting boundary snaps with Dallis Flowers in Weeks 2 and 3 with JuJu Brents on injured reserve but stepped into a much larger role against the Steelers, playing 56 defensive snaps and taking advantage of the opportunity.
By PFF’s metrics, Womack was targeted only twice the entire game, allowing one completion for 12 yards with a pass breakup. Womack also had the 15th best PFF grade among cornerbacks as well.
Smith will spend most of the day matched up with defensive end Travon Walker, who is second on the Jaguars in pressures and has been one of the more productive run defenders at his position group by PFF’s metrics.
Womack, along with Jaylon Jones, will be tasked with slowing Brian Thomas, who is averaging 16.2 yards per catch and is tied for fifth in receptions on passes of 20-plus yards this season.