Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen has been downgraded to OUT with a groin injury and will miss Sunday morning’s affair against the Washington Commanders in London.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen initially announced that no players had been ruled out, but the six-time pro bowler was limited in practice this week, so an inactive possibility is always there. Allen left practice Friday with a developed groin issue before being officially ruled out.
The 34-year-old possession receiver found the blue paydirt for the first time in a Colts uniform last week, scoring the first touchdown in a 19-17 win over the AFC South rival Houston Texans. It was the 71st touchdown catch of his 14-year career, moving Allen into a tie with Bob Hayes and Wes Welker for No. 50 on the NFL’s all-time list. Through three games, Allen has been a productive addition with 13 catches on 20 targets for 100 receiving yards and a touchdown.
The loss leaves Indianapolis without another key piece in their depleted receiver room. The Colts are expected to be without Alec Pierce, who is on injured reserve with a heel injury for at least the next three games. Ashton Dulin also missed the last two weeks with an ankle injury, but has not been ruled out and should be available for Sunday’s game. With Allen sidelined, the Colts elevated receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhene from the practice squad to add depth to the position.
The Colts (1-2) will face the Commanders (1-2) in the NFL’s opening Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30 am at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.