Even though the Jacksonville Jaguars have clinched a playoff spot, they have several reasons to win when they face off against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 17. The first one is that it will increase their odds of seizing the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Moreover, Jacskonville has yet to win the AFC South, so a win would ensure they continue to have a lead over the rival Houston Texans. Last but not least, handing the loss to the Colts will effectively eliminate them from playoff contention, so expect the Jags to step on the gas pedal throughout the game and not take their foot off until the outcome is abundantly clear.
Jaguars injuries for the Colts game in Week 17
The Jaguars ruled out three players in their final injury report for the AFC South matchup: Right guard Patrick Mekari (back), edge rusher Jalen McLeod (ankle), and defensive end Danny Striggow (knee). Running back Bhayshul Tuten (finger) and center Robert Hainsey (groin) earned the questionable designation. However, Jacksonville downgraded Tuten to out Saturday, adding that he didn't make the trip to Indianapolis.
If Hainsey isn't good to go, rookie Jonah Monheim will get the nod. The former USC Trojan has gotten playing time at both guard and center and has generally fared well. On the other hand, Walker Little will most likely start at right guard. He replaced Mekari in the lineup when he left the Broncos game.
It's also worth noting that the Jags opened McLeod's 21-day practice window but haven't activated him off IR, so he may make his NFL debut in the finale against the Tennessee Titans. On a related note, the team elevated offensive lineman Jerome Carvin and safety Juan Thorhill to the active roster from the practice squad via standard elevation.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have elevated OL Jerome Carvin and S Juan Thornhill to the active roster from the practice squad for tomorrow’s game via standard elevation.
— JaguarsPR (@JaguarsPR) December 27, 2025
On the opposite sideline, Indy will be without defensive tackle DeForest Bucker, who's been dealing with a herniated disc throughout the year. He had previously spent time on IR but returned in Week 16. However, the All-Pro nod wasn't 100 percent and was shut down for the year ahead of the Jacksonville game. Working in the Colts' favor is that cornerback Sauce Garner is expected to suit up — he's missed time with a calf injury, and left tackle Bernham Raimann is back in the fold after suffering an elbow injury.
Anton Harrison was listed as questionable just before the game with an illness.
Jaguars have added RT Anton Harrison (illness) to game status report. He's questionable, which means Jaguars could potentially down three starting OL: RG Patrick Mekari (back) is out and C Robert Hainsey (groin) is questionable.
— Michael DiRocco (@ESPNdirocco) December 28, 2025
Related: Dan Graziano just revealed the Jags' secret weapon for a playoff run
Jaguars inactives for the Colts rematch in Week 17
Here are the inactives for today's game:
• Keith Taylor, cornerback
• Bhayshul Tuten, running back
• Patrick Mekari, right guard
• Robert Hainsey, center
• Hunter Long, tight end
• Danny Striggow, defensive end
• Maason Smith, defensive tackle
