There's a new sense of hope surrounding Andrew Luck's latest injury.
According to a report from ESPN, which cited unidentified sources, there's a "guarded optimism" the franchise quarterback could be ready for the Colts' regular-season opener Sept. 8 at the Chargers.
Luck suffered a calf strain this spring and participated in just three practices during training camp, all as a limited participant. Colts owner Jim Irsay later revealed Tuesday that Luck is dealing with a "small little bone" injury in his lower left leg, which will likely force him to sit out the entire preseason.
“I feel very confident he’s going to find a way through this thing. I think after the (Kevin) Durant thing, everyone is erring on the side of caution, but quite frankly, this is not even in the Achilles tendon,” Irsay said. “It’s a bone. I’m not good at these things, but it’s a small little bone.”
The Colts have been cautious with Luck, who also dealt with a nagging shoulder injury that sidelined him for the 2017 season, so it's unlikely they'll push him too hard too soon.
But with the team's opener nearing, Colts coach Frank Reich told reporters Wednesday he wants to decide by next weekend whether Luck or backup Jacoby Brissett will be the starter.
"You have to be able to make a call and move from there," Reich said, "whether we're full speed with Andrew after that third preseason game (Aug. 24) or if at that point we are going with Jacoby."
Luck, 29, earned his fourth Pro Bowl selection last season after throwing for 4,593 yards with 39 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. He was also named the Pro Football Writers Association's Comeback Player of the Year for his resurgence after undergoing surgery.