Patriots prepare for joint practice with Colts amid injury updates and coaching notes

The New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts are set to meet for a joint practice on Monday, which will be conducted at a reduced intensity. The Colts, who finished last season with an 8-9 record after a strong 7-1 start, are coping with multiple injuries. Wide receiver Alec Pierce, who recently received a second PRP injection in his left ankle, remains out, and slot receiver Josh Downs is sidelined with a groin injury, though he may participate. The team also lacks projected starting middle linebacker CJ Allen, who is dealing with a hamstring issue, and safety Hunter Wohler, who is similarly hampered.

The Colts' coaching staff includes head coach Shane Steichen, who took over in 2023 after serving as the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, formerly with the Cincinnati Bengals. Special teams coordinator Brian Mason is in his fourth season with the club.

Connections between the two franchises include former Patriots linebacker Chad Muma, who was briefly on the Colts' practice squad before rejoining New England, and former Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard, who previously threw to Patriots tight end Eli Raridon. Former Indianapolis players such as defensive end Arden Key and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine also have ties to the Patriots' former coach, Bill Belichick.

Matchups to watch during the session feature Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner against Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown, and Colts tight end Tyler Warren versus Patriots linebacker Christian Elliss and safety Craig Woodson, a contest described as a key test for New England's secondary.