Anthony Castonzo downgraded to out, Colts to be without both starting tackles vs. Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a team who could benefit from any good fortune that might come their way. On Friday news broke of Indianapolis Colts right tackle Braden Smith being placed on the COVID-19/Reserve List, meaning he won’t be playing Sunday when the Colts travel to Heinz Field.

T.J. Watt will now have a favorable matchup on Sunday, but it looks like rookie Alex Highsmith will also have a favorable matchup this Sunday. On Saturday, the Colts downgraded starting left tackle Anthony Castonzo to out.

Castonzo has been the starting left tackle in Indianapolis since he was drafted in the first round of the 2011 draft. Missing two games already in 2020, Castonzo was dealing with a sprained MCL which he was playing through late in the season. Unfortunately, an additional ankle injury put Castonzo on the injury report this week and now has him downgraded to out against the Steelers.

Castonzo signed a two-year, $33 million contract extension with the Colts this past offseason. Based on yearly salary, Castonzo is the fifth highest paid left tackle in the NFL.

The Steelers are reeling with a 3-game losing streak, and the news of the Colts being without both starting tackles could be just what the doctor ordered for the black and gold.

Be sure to stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes on the Steelers as they prepare for the Colts at Heinz Field in Week 16.