Josh Downs out for Colts’ opener, but Matt Gay questionable

INDIANAPOLIS – Josh Downs is out and Matt Gay remains a maybe.

That’s Friday’s injury update as the Indianapolis Colts work toward Sunday’s season-opening showdown with AFC South rival Houston at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Coach Shane Steichen offered the expected decision on Downs.

“The only guy we’re ruling out for the game is Josh Downs,’’ he said.

The second-year receiver hasn’t participated in a full-squad practice since suffering a high sprain to his right ankle Aug. 7. Downs has spent this week working on the side with the team’s training and rehab staff.

“He’s progressing really well,’’ Steichen said. “Shoot, hopefully sooner than later for sure. We’re just going to hold him this week and see how next week goes.’’

After dealing with the Texans, the Colts travel to Green Bay.

While closing the door on Downs’ availability, Steichen didn’t eliminate the possibility of Gay handling kicking duties Sunday. Gay underwent hernia surgery last week but already has resumed kicking.

“We’ll see in the next two days,’’ Steichen said. “He’s feeling good. He’s progressing well.

“We’ll make that decision when we have to make that decision.’’

If it’s determined Gay isn’t ready to return so soon after surgery, rookie Spencer Shrader will be added to the active roster from the practice squad.

“If he has to play, we have a lot of confidence in him,’’ Steichen said.

Shrader has approached this week as if he’ll kick against Houston.

“You should probably approach life that way,’’ he said Thursday. “You should always prepare for the big moment even if it doesn’t come for you, so that way when it does come, you’re not surprised.

“I’ve had a lot of new experiences that have come my way and this is the same thing. It’s just another new experience for me and it’s not something I haven’t done before.

“I’m just excited for the opportunity.’’

Shrader converted 56- and 41-yard field goals in the final preseason game at Cincinnati. He also converted all four of his PATs in the preseason.

In 57 collegiate appearances with Notre Dame and South Florida, Shrader converted 43-of-63 field-goal attempts (68.3 percent).

You can follow Mike Chappell on Twitter at @mchappell51.

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