Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts

In the NFL, injuries are an unavoidable part of the game—but the true test of a team’s resilience lies in how its players recover, and how the organization supports them along the way. For the Indianapolis Colts, this season has seen several key players sidelined by injuries, from rookie quarterbacks to veteran defenders. Yet recent updates have brought encouraging news: multiple Colts athletes are making significant strides in their rehab, hitting key milestones that suggest they could return to action sooner than expected—or be fully ready for the 2025 offseason. Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts isn’t just about tracking recoveries; it’s about celebrating the hard work, dedication, and teamwork that go into getting back on the field—and how these efforts strengthen the team’s future.

Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts begins with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, whose recovery from shoulder surgery has exceeded all expectations. Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 draft, underwent season-ending surgery in Week 5 after injuring his throwing shoulder—but recent updates from the Colts’ medical staff indicate he’s ahead of schedule. He’s already progressed to light throwing drills (using a weighted ball to build strength) and has been cleared to participate in non-contact team meetings, where he’s been sharing insights with starting quarterback Gardner Minshew. “Anthony’s work ethic during rehab has been incredible,” Colts head athletic trainer Ryan Theis said. “He’s in the facility every day—working with our strength coaches, studying film, and staying engaged with the offense. To see him throwing this early is a huge win, and it gives us confidence he’ll be ready to compete for the starting job next season.” Richardson’s progress hasn’t just lifted his own spirits; it’s also boosted the locker room, as teammates have watched him turn a setback into a chance to grow.

A second player making notable progress in Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts is veteran linebacker Zaire Franklin, who’s recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for two games in November. Franklin, the Colts’ leading tackler in 2023 (167 tackles), suffered the injury during a Week 9 win over the Carolina Panthers but has since returned to limited practice—and is expected to be fully cleared for contact by Week 16. His rehab has focused on strengthening his hamstring and improving flexibility, with daily sessions that include yoga, resistance band drills, and sprint work. “Zaire is one of our hardest workers, so it’s no surprise he’s bouncing back quickly,” Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley said. “He’s been attending every defensive meeting while rehabbing, so he hasn’t missed a beat schematically. Having him back will be a huge boost for our defense—he’s our leader on that side of the ball, and his presence changes how we play.” Franklin’s progress is particularly timely, as the Colts head into a critical stretch of games against playoff contenders like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.

Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts also includes tight end Kylen Granson, whose shoulder injury recovery has been a bright spot for the Indianapolis Colts’ offensive depth. Granson, who had 32 catches for 380 yards and 3 touchdowns before being injured in Week 10, has been cleared to participate in individual drills and is targeting a return for the Colts’ Week 15 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. His rehab has focused on rebuilding strength in his shoulder through weight training and mobility exercises, and he’s been working closely with tight ends coach Justin Outten to stay sharp on route-running and blocking techniques. “Kylen’s recovery has been smooth, and he’s stayed mentally locked in even when he couldn’t practice,” Outten said. “For the Indianapolis Colts, getting him back means we’ll have our full tight end room available for the first time in over a month—and that flexibility will help us keep defenses off balance. Kylen is a key part of our passing game, and his return will open up more opportunities for Gardner [Minshew] and our wide receivers.” Granson’s progress also eases concerns about the Colts’ tight end depth, which had been tested by injuries earlier in the season.

Another player making waves in Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts is rookie defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore, whose knee injury recovery has impressed the Colts’ coaching staff. Adebawore, a fourth-round pick out of Northwestern, suffered a knee sprain in training camp and missed the first eight games of the season—but he’s since returned to practice and made his NFL debut in Week 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, recording two tackles and a quarterback hit. His rehab focused on building knee stability through strength drills and agility exercises, and he worked closely with defensive line coach Matt Raich to refine his technique while sidelined. “Ade is a quick learner, and he used his rehab time to study film and improve his craft,” Raich said. “For the Indianapolis Colts, his return adds depth to our defensive line—and gives us another young player with upside to develop. He’s already shown flashes of what he can do, and we’re excited to see how he grows over the rest of the season.” Adebawore’s progress is a testament to the Colts’ ability to develop young talent, even when injuries delay their debuts.

Finally, Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts wraps up with the Colts’ holistic approach to rehab—and how it’s contributed to these players’ success. The team’s medical staff, which includes athletic trainers, physical therapists, and nutritionists, works with each player to create a personalized rehab plan that addresses not just their injury, but also their mental health and overall well-being. Players have access to cutting-edge technology (like anti-gravity treadmills and cryotherapy chambers) and receive regular check-ins from coaches and teammates to keep them motivated. “Rehab isn’t just about getting a player physically ready—it’s about keeping them mentally engaged and part of the team,” Theis said. “For the Indianapolis Colts, that holistic approach has been key to our players’ progress. We don’t just treat injuries; we support people, and that’s why our players are able to come back stronger than ever.” As the Colts push for a playoff spot, these rehab successes aren’t just individual wins—they’re team wins, reinforcing the idea that the Colts are built on resilience, support, and a commitment to excellence. Player Progress in Rehab Noted for the Indianapolis Colts ultimately reveals that while injuries can slow a team down, they don’t have to stop it—and the Colts’ players and staff have proven that with hard work and teamwork, any setback can be turned into a comeback.