The Colts backfield is in trouble. Jonathan Taylor wasn’t available on Thursday night due to an ankle injury suffered in week 4. Nyheim Hines was in line for a big night, but a hit to the head put an abrupt end to that. Hines showed “gross motor instability” as he tried to get back on his feet, a clear symptom of a concussion.
Hines had to be helped off the field and headed straight to the locker room. He has been officially ruled out and is in concussion protocol. Before the injury Hines had one rushing attempt for three yards. On the season he has eight carries for 11 yards. The Colts signs Phillip Lindsay to their practice squad and activated him in time for tonight’s game. He will presumably split carries with Deon Jackson.
The NFL is under intense scrutiny following the Tua Tagovailoa head injury from week 3/4. I hope this is the turning point for how head injuries are treated across the league as these can have long-term consequences far after football if mismanaged.
Based on Hines’ clear concussion symptoms right away, there was no way he was going to get cleared to return tonight. Now he will have to clear the steps in concussion protocol before returning. Jonathan Taylor has a good chance at returning in week 6, so Hines role would be significantly diminished if he does get cleared.
