The Colts will be without two starting defenders against an undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers offense.
Indianapolis Colts (1-2) head coach Shane Steichen ruled out starting cornerback Kenny Moore II (hip) and defensive end Kwity Paye (quad) ahead of Sunday’s Week 4 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0) (-2.5):
Per Coach Steichen, CB Kenny Moore II and DE Kwity Paye have been ruled out for #PITvsIND.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) September 27, 2024
Losing both starting defenders is a big blow to a Colts defense that looked like its former self for the first time in 2024, last weekend in victory against the Chicago Bears.
Without Moore II manning the slot, who has a +83.3 coverage grade per PFF, the Colts will presumably turn to Samuel Womack III (who started on the outside last week) or recently promoted cornerback Chris Lammons to help fill his sizable slot void. It could potentially mean a bigger afternoon for Steelers starting slot wideout, Calvin Austin III, who has 6 receptions for 108 receiving yards and a touchdown reception so far this season.
Meanwhile, Paye is unquestionably the Colts best ‘edge-setter’ at defensive end right now, especially with fellow injured starter Samson Ebukam (Achilles) out for at least the vast majority of this season. His loss in the lineup could be felt against a run-heavy Pittsburgh Steelers offense that features Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren in the backfield, as well as dynamic dual-threat quarterback Justin Fields behind center. Via PFF, Paye currently has a +62.1 run defense grade, as before last week, their run defense collectively struggled.
Without Paye, I would expect to see more Dayo Odeyingbo and Laiatu Latu primarily replacing his first-team defense reps, with backups such as Genard Avery and Isaiah Land rotating in for breathers.
