Colts' Sauce Gardner Nearing Return, Would Have Practiced Thursday

Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner, who has missed the last three games with a calf injury, would have returned to practice on Thursday if the team had held one. Gardner did not practice on Wednesday but was listed as a limited participant on the Christmas injury report, indicating progress in his recovery. His status for the upcoming game against the Jaguars will be further clarified after Friday's final workout. The decision on his return could also be influenced by the Texans' game outcome, as a Texans victory would eliminate the Colts from playoff contention.