The Indianapolis Colts are not expecting to have right tackle Braden Smith available this week against the Denver Broncos.
According to James Boyd of The Athletic, head coach Shane Steichen told the local media members prior to Wednesday’s practice that is unlikely that Smith will play this week due to a personal matter.
When Steichen was asked if Smith would return at some point this season, he replied, “I don’t know yet.”
Smith would miss the Colts’ previous game against New England due to this personal matter.
Without Smith expected to be available, the Colts will turn to rookie Matt Goncalves, who has seen extensive action at both tackle spots over the last five games now.
Prior to taking over for Smith at right tackle against the Patriots, Goncalves had been filling in at left tackle for Bernhard Raimann, who missed time with a concussion and then a knee injury.
As is expected from a first year player, the more reps Goncalves is getting the more settled in he appears to be. In the last three games combined, he’s surrendered four pressures and no sacks. Goncalves does appear to be more comfortable in pass protection as he is still working to generate a consistent push in the run game.
Awaiting the Colts’ offensive line this week is a Denver pass rush that has been one of the best at putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
