The Indianapolis Colts are still in the AFC playoff race.
However, they will miss the contributions of two key players for the rest of the regular season and possibly beyond as Shane Steichen’s team looks to continue its push toward the playoffs.
On Tuesday, the Colts announced that cornerback Tony Brown and wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie were suspended for three games for conduct detrimental to the team. While Indianapolis announced their suspensions for the remainder of the regular season, the Colts were pretty mum on details.
Brown and McKenzie were healthy scratches for the team’s 30-13 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 15. The Colts didn’t explain their absences, but perhaps the suspension for conduct detrimental to the team points to that. However, their absences weren’t merely glossed over, as both had played in every game this season until this past Saturday.
Both players are vital to the team’s special teams unit. McKenzie, perhaps the more notable name of the two, is a former Buffalo Bills wideout with 11 receptions (on 14 targets) for 82 yards this season.
As the Colts continue their season, they will have to do so without some significant special teams players. It is uncertain if their absence will affect the team’s performance on the field. Additionally, if the Colts make it to the playoffs, it is unclear whether Brown or McKenzie will be activated for those games.
First, they’ll need to get there to make that a conversation.
[PFT]
