Colts vs. Ravens Injury Report: Pierce Ready, Ajiake Questionable for Week 1

As the NFL season kicks off on September 12, 2026, the Indianapolis Colts have finalized their Week 1 injury report ahead of a pivotal opening clash against the Baltimore Ravens. According to the team's official release, the Colts are largely healthy, but a few key names remain uncertain for Sunday's showdown at Lucas Oil Stadium. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, here's the latest on who's in and who's out for Indianapolis.

Alec Pierce Good to Go, But Expect a Snap Count

Wide receiver Alec Pierce (heel) was limited in practice all week, but the Colts have not given him a game designation, meaning he will suit up against Baltimore. However, according to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Pierce may be on a snap count as the team eases him back into game-speed action. The fourth-year pro is expected to provide a deep threat opposite Michael Pittman Jr., but fantasy managers should temper expectations for a full workload in Week 1.

Secondary Boost: Haulcy Set to Start, Ward Managing Back Issue

Rookie safety AJ Haulcy (ankle) finished the week strong with back-to-back full practices and carries no game designation. He is in line to start at strong safety, though he'll likely rotate with second-year safety Hunter Wohler. As highlighted on Vulius, Haulcy's quick recovery is a positive sign for a Colts secondary that will need all hands on deck against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens' high-powered offense. Meanwhile, cornerback Charvarius Ward (rest) was limited to end the week, but he has been managing a back injury since the offseason. Ward's availability is crucial for a pass defense that will be tested early and often.

Defensive Line at Full Strength

Defensive tackles DeForest Buckner (rest) and Grover Stewart (rest) both missed practice time this week but only for rest purposes. They are fully available for Sunday and will anchor a run defense tasked with containing Derrick Henry. The Colts' defensive front is at full strength, which is a significant advantage against a Ravens team that thrives on physicality.

Illness Bug Passes, but Ajiake Questionable

Quarterback Anthony Richardson (illness) and center Sedrick Van Pran-Granger (illness) both bounced back from illnesses and are clear to play. However, both will serve as backups—Richardson behind Gardner Minshew and Van Pran-Granger behind Ryan Kelly. The only Colt with a game injury designation is linebacker Austin Ajiake (hamstring), who is listed as QUESTIONABLE. Ajiake missed practice late in the week and will likely be a game-time decision. His potential absence would thin out the linebacker depth, but the Colts have capable replacements in Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed.

What It Means for Sunday

Overall, the Colts are in good shape health-wise for their opener. The return of Pierce and Haulcy bolsters both the passing game and secondary, while the defensive line is fully intact. The biggest question mark is Ajiake, whose status will be monitored up until kickoff. As always, stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates and in-depth analysis as the Colts begin their 2026 campaign.