Two All-Pros Return to Practice for Colts

The Indianapolis Colts have played a lot of ugly football on their way to 3-2-1 record, but help is on the way. Running back Jonathan Taylor and linebacker Shaquille Leonard returned to practice Wednesday after missing Week 6's 34-27 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Also practicing: Jonathan Taylor, Nyheim Hines. https://t.co/3Ru9j6mmMi

— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) October 19, 2022

Taylor missed the previous two games with an ankle injury suffered in Week 4's 20-17 loss to the Tennessee Titans. He has struggled this season since a stellar opener against the Houston Texans, totalling 372 yards from scrimmage and 4.1 yards per touch over four appearances.

Leonard has missed all but 16 snaps this season. Back surgery kept him out of the first three games, and he promptly suffered a concussion and broken nose in his Week 4 return against the Titans. He's been out ever since.

Taylor and Leonard were both All-Pros for the Colts in 2021. Taylor led the league with 2171 yards from scrimmage and 20 total touchdowns, finishing second to only wide receiver Cooper Kupp in AP Offensive Player of the Year voting. Ever the play-maker, Leonard nabbed four interceptions and led the league with eight forced fumbles, earning his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl and third first-team All-Pro.

Should both players return at the peak of their powers, the Colts could evolve into a surprising contender in the AFC despite their early-season offensive struggles. With a win over the Titans on Sunday, they could sit alone atop the AFC South standings despite an offense that ranks 27th in points scored and 29th in turnovers through six weeks.

Photo Credit: © Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK