Andrew Luck has missed four games while recovering from a lacerated kidney, but the Indianapolis Colts quarterback has taken the next step toward getting under center.
Zak Keefer of the Indianapolis Star notes Luck returned to the practice field on Wednesday for the first since Nov. 6, a 40-day drought.
Big news: Andrew Luck is at practice today with other #Colts quarterbacks. First time we've seen him do this since Nov. 6.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) December 16, 2015
Although it goes without saying Luck’s presence is a tremendous sign for the Colts, the most encouraging part is he’s been cleared for workouts. Luck previously asserted he would not simply take over at quarterback without practicing.
Plus, an ESPN report suggested he might not return in 2015. While there’s still a chance Luck encounters a medical setback — because let’s be serious, a lacerated kidney is slightly more serious than a tweaked ankle — he’s on the right track to be ready for the playoffs.
There’s no doubt the Colts will watch Luck carefully, and they’ll ease him back into a full load of practice reps. Kevin Bowen of the team’s official site notes he didn’t see a helmet for Luck.
Don’t expect Luck to be ready for Week 15’s pivotal matchup with the Houston Texans, who are tied with Indianapolis at 6-7 and atop the AFC South.
But if the Colts knock off Houston, a Week 16 or 17 return will be an intriguing prospect for Luck and an offense in desperate need of the franchise quarterback to re-take the reins.