In addition to having defensive tackle DeForest Buckner back on the practice field, Indianapolis Colts’ linebacker Cameron McGrone will also be designated to return from injured reserve and practicing on Wednesday.
McGrone began the regular season in injured reserve designated to return after suffering an elbow injury during training camp.
He appeared in the Colts’ first preseason game, recording five tackles and a forced fumble.
Back in early September, McGrone spoke with The Athletic’s James Boyd and said that it was a dislocated elbow that landed him on IR. McGrone added that the injury occurred during a drill in practice and it did require surgery.
McGrone, along with defensive end Samson Ebukam, were the two players during roster cutdowns placed on IR but designated to return.
During the 2023 season, McGrone emerged as a core special teams contributor for the Colts, playing 151 snaps across four different phases.
Following roster cutdowns, when general manager Chris Ballard was speaking with the media, he mentioned the major strides that McGrone had made in his game over the last year and that the team is looking forward to getting him back.
By being designated to return, this opens up a 21 day window for Buckner to added back to the Colts’ 53-man roster, at which point he will be available to play on Sundays.
The full 21 days do not have to be exercised in order for Buckner to return to game action. He can be activated on Day 1, Day 21, or anywhere in between, that is all dependent upon his health.
Once McGrone is added back to the active roster, a corresponding cut will have to be made to make room for him.
