CJ Allen’s Hamstring Is Already a Major Headache and Nobody Saw It Coming

The Colts are already dealing with a major setback, with rookie linebacker CJ Allen missing practice on Thursday due to a hamstring injury. This isn’t just some minor knock; head coach Shane Steichen confirmed it, and there’s no timetable for when Allen might be back on the field. Talk about a gut punch when you’re trying to get things rolling.

Hamstring Hits Hard After Previous Calf Issues

This hamstring situation is extra frustrating because Allen already missed some practices earlier on. He was on the PUP list, dealing with a calf injury back then. Now, it’s a hamstring, and it means he’s losing crucial practice reps. For a rookie who’s expected to step up and start at linebacker, every single rep is gold. You just gotta wonder how much this stop-start beginning is going to impact his integration.

The Green Dot Drama and Key Praises

Allen’s supposed to be a starter, but the big question is whether he’ll get the “green dot” and be the signal-caller for the defense. He’d handled those duties recently, but with him sidelined, Cam Bynum has taken over that role. This is huge for defensive communication, and losing the expected signal-caller, even temporarily, can mess with rhythm. What’s clear is the team sees his potential. Lou Anarumo, speaking about Allen early on, said the kid “never left this building all summer and works his butt off both physically and mentally. He’s around. He sees what’s going on, so I’m not worried about it.” That’s high praise, and you can tell they’re counting on him.

Without Allen, the Colts are looking at Bryce Boettcher and Akeem Davis-Gaither as potential starting options. Austin Ajiake or Jaylon Carlies could also be in the mix. They’ve been rotating linebackers a bunch this offseason, so the depth will certainly be tested now. We gotta hope Allen gets back out there soon, because the defense needs him making plays.

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Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.