Breaking: Cowboys Game Brings Seven Colts Inactives

Image Source: Colts.com

The cowboys game between the Indianapolis Colts and Dallas Cowboys will feature several notable absences after Indianapolis announced seven inactive players for its Week 9 matchup at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

The Colts released their inactive list shortly before kickoff, confirming that tight end Pharaoh Brown, linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither, safety AJ Haulcy, tackle Charlie Heck, quarterback Riley Leonard, tight end Will Mallory, and cornerback Justin Walley would not play.

Colts Reveal Critical Inactives for Cowboys Game

Two of Indianapolis’ absences had already been confirmed before Sunday. Davis-Gaither and Walley were ruled out on Friday with knee injuries, removing two defensive options from the Colts’ Week 9 plans.

Haulcy became the latest player to be ruled out after being listed as questionable on Friday with an ankle injury. The safety was downgraded Saturday morning, giving Indianapolis additional time to adjust its defensive personnel before the Cowboys game.

• Pharaoh Brown: Inactive at tight end.
• Akeem Davis-Gaither: Inactive with a knee injury.
• AJ Haulcy: Inactive after an ankle injury designation.
• Charlie Heck: Inactive at tackle.
• Riley Leonard: Inactive as the emergency third quarterback.
• Will Mallory: Inactive at tight end.
• Justin Walley: Inactive with a knee injury.

Jalen Travis Cleared for Indianapolis

While the Colts will be without seven players, the team received encouraging news along the offensive line. Tackle Jalen Travis, who was listed as questionable Friday because of thumb and hamstring injuries, is active against Dallas.

Travis’ availability could be especially important as Indianapolis manages its depth at tackle. His return gives the Colts another available option in protection and helps offset the absence of Charlie Heck, who will watch the matchup from the sideline.

The active designation also provides clarity for Indianapolis coaches, who had been monitoring Travis throughout the week. His ability to play may influence the Colts’ personnel groupings and protection plans against the Cowboys’ defensive front.

Riley Leonard’s Status Adds Quarterback Context

Quarterback Riley Leonard is inactive for the Cowboys game in his listed role as the emergency third quarterback. His absence does not necessarily change the starting quarterback situation, but it does reduce Indianapolis’ available depth at the position.

NFL teams typically designate an emergency quarterback who can enter a game under specific circumstances if the other quarterbacks are unable to continue. With Leonard inactive, the Colts will have one fewer contingency option available on game day.

That detail could become significant if Indianapolis faces unexpected quarterback issues during the contest. For now, the decision is part of the team’s broader effort to balance health, roster availability, and positional needs for a crucial Week 9 home game.

Injuries Create Important Matchup Challenges

The inactive list affects both sides of the football. Davis-Gaither, Haulcy, and Walley represent losses for the defense, while Brown, Heck, Leonard, and Mallory are unavailable on offense or in the team’s reserve structure.

The Colts will need contributions from their active roster, particularly at tight end, along the offensive line, and in the secondary. The absences could create additional opportunities for healthy players to take on expanded roles against Dallas.

For the Cowboys, Indianapolis’ defensive absences may shape how Dallas approaches its passing attack and personnel packages. On the other side, the Colts could look to maintain offensive efficiency despite having fewer options at tight end and tackle.

Sunday’s announcement follows a week of injury monitoring in Indianapolis. Davis-Gaither and Walley were previously ruled out, while Haulcy’s late status change provided the final major update before the teams met at Lucas Oil Stadium.

What to Watch During the Week 9 Showdown

With the final inactives confirmed, attention now turns to how the Colts distribute snaps. The performance of the replacements could be one of the most important storylines in the Cowboys game, particularly if the contest remains close late.

Travis’ return gives Indianapolis a needed boost, but the team still faces a challenging personnel situation. The Colts must protect their quarterback, establish reliable production from available tight ends, and limit defensive communication issues in the secondary.

The Dallas matchup also offers an early test of Indianapolis’ roster resilience. Injuries are a regular part of an NFL season, yet the way a team responds can determine whether it remains competitive through a demanding schedule.

As the Colts and Cowboys prepare to play, the confirmed inactive list provides a clear snapshot of Indianapolis’ Week 9 challenges. The focus now shifts from availability to execution, with every active player expected to contribute in a highly anticipated home matchup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Colts players are inactive for the Cowboys game?

The Colts announced seven inactive players for their Week 9 game against Dallas.

Which Colts players were ruled out with injuries?

Akeem Davis-Gaither and Justin Walley were previously ruled out with knee injuries. AJ Haulcy was later ruled out because of an ankle injury.

Is Jalen Travis playing against the Cowboys?

Yes. Jalen Travis is active after being listed as questionable with thumb and hamstring injuries.

Why is Riley Leonard inactive?

Leonard is inactive in his role as the emergency third quarterback for the Colts.

Where is the Cowboys game being played?

The Week 9 matchup is being played at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.