The Indianapolis Colts’ head coach, Shane Steichen, has confirmed that tight end Jelani Woods is on the verge of returning.
Shane Steichen, the Indianapolis Colts’ head coach, revealed today that tight end Jelani Woods is coming closer to returning to play. Kevin Bowen of 1075 This update was acquired by The Fan.
“Steichen says Jelani Woods (hamstring) is getting closer to practice,” Bowen wrote on X. “Woods has been on IR to start the season.”
Woods is hoping to return to the field after missing the most of off-season training and camps. He has been on injured reserve for all seven games this season. To understand what Woods is capable of, one must go back to 2022, when he was a rookie.
In 15 games, he caught 25 passes (40 targets) for 312 yards and three receiving touchdowns. While these aren’t impressive figures, it should be noted that Woods was a result of one of Indianapolis’ worst offensive seasons in recent memory.
With an offensive mind like Steichen now able to effectively use Woods, the second-year tight end might benefit greatly in realising his full potential. Standing at 6’7” and weighing more than 250 pounds, Woods is a red zone menace who can also sprint far quicker than any defence would expect given his bulk.
The hope for the Colts is that Woods is closer to a return than not. While it’s fair to say that tight ends Drew Ogletree, Kylen Granson, Mo Alie-Cox, and Will Mallory have played well as a unit, it could also be true that none possess the raw abilities that Woods does. His return would only further amplify this already talented group for Steichen’s offense.
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