Stampede Blue
The Colts will reportedly have their veteran right bookend available on Sunday against the New York Jets defense.
Despite recently being downgraded to ‘questionable’ due to a personal matter, Indianapolis Colts starting right tackle Braden Smith reportedly traveled with the team earlier this weekend and will be starting on Sunday against the New York Jets (via The IndyStar’s Nate Atkins):
The 7-year veteran has started in all 10 games for the Colts so far this season, earning a +64.7 overall grade including a +76.2 run blocking grade. His availability is critical against a Jets front seven that includes former 2023 Jets’ first round pick Will McDonald IV at starting left defensive end, who has 8.0 sacks (4th most in the league) and 2 forced fumbles already.
Not to mention, the Colts are still starting three rookie offensive linemen: left tackle Matt Goncalves, Tanor Bortolini at center, and Dalton Tucker at right guard respectively—with 2nd-year quarterback Anthony Richardson returning behind center.
While he’s battled through some lingering injuries this season, Smith is a solidifying veteran presence at right tackle and presents a clear upgrade to his otherwise projected replacement, 2023 4th round pick Blake Freeland, who largely struggled during his first two seasons—albeit in limited action as a replacement at both offensive tackle spots.
As it stands, Colts All-Pro left guard Quenton Nelson and Smith will be the only non-rookies and opening day starters for Indianapolis along their offensive line.
