Have We Seen The Last Of Jelani Woods In Indy?

Source: Justin Casterline / Getty

What was supposed to be a bounce-back season for Colts tight end Jelani Woods has instead ended in disappointingly familiar territory.  

It was announced on Tuesday that Woods would be placed on IR, and would miss his 2nd-straight season. He previously missed all of 2023 with a hamstring issue. It’s a big blow to the 3rd year tight end, who was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2022 draft with visions of using his 6’7”, 253lb frame as a massive redzone and receiving target. Instead, Woods had an unremarkable rookie season, catching 25 passes for 312 yards and 3 touchdowns, and hasn’t seen the field since.  

Being a 3rd-rounder, and possessing his immense physical attributes, have bought Woods some time. With this latest setback however, it is fair to wonder if we have seen the last of him in a Colts uniform. Going on IR gives the Colts some time to figure out what they want to do, and Woods will still have a year on his contract on 2025. However, they say availability is the best ability, especially in the NFL, and Woods just hasn’t been available. Do the Colts keep him around next season at the expense of a player who has maybe contributed more? 

It’s an unfortunate turn of events for Woods and the Colts. He’s only 25 and has at times flashed the potential that intrigued the Colts at first. He just hasn’t been able to remain healthy, and at a certain point, it no longer makes sense to keep holding out hope that he’ll be able to.   

For Woods and the Colts, that time might have arrived. 

Listen to the best of Tuesday edition of The Ride With JMV, where John spoke about Woods and his injury, and make sure to tune into The Ride With JMV weekdays from 3-6pm on 93.5/107.5 The Fan!