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The Indianapolis Colts (6-4) are dealing with various injuries on both sides of the ball as they prepare on the short week for the Thursday night matchup against the Houston Texans (6-4), but it seems there is a chance cornerback Pierre Desir makes his return.
Having missed the last four games due to a hamstring injury, Desir has practiced in a limited fashion during the team’s walkthroughs this week. The quick turnaround doesn’t allow the Colts to hold regular practices because rest is more important than reps earlier in the week.
While it remains to be seen if Desir will be able to play, there is some optimism. The veteran cornerback himself expects to be a game-time decision.
“I’m taking it day-by-day just listening to the trainers, just trying to get myself mentally prepared and being in the playbook,” Desir told reporters Tuesday. “It’s going to be a game-time decision.”
When healthy, Desir has been a starter on the boundary for the Colts. The 29-year-old is especially important for the game plan against the Texans because of his ability to thrive in bump and run with DeAndre Hopkins.
Though Hopkins had a huge game in Week 7 (9-106-1), Desir has had success in limiting the star wide receiver in the past. However, the Colts might need Desir now more than ever given the injuries befalling the cornerback room.
The soft tissue injury has a high rate of re-injury. Desir is making sure he is 100% before getting back on the field.
“No, it was just trying to get rest really. (I) just wasn’t 100 percent and after playing on it I wasn’t 100 percent when I played,” Desir said. “So just trying to make sure I get healed up and get ready for the next couple games.”
The Colts have a crucial matchup that would give them sole possession of first place with the win, and Desir’s status will be a major storyline to keep an eye on.