The Indianapolis Colts elevated offensive tackle Jared Veldheer and wide receiver Ethan Fernea from the practice squad to the active roster ahead of the Week 16 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, the team announced Saturday.
Veldheer was signed to the practice squad on Dec. 11, coming out of retirement. He last played for the Colts in 2020 when he started the wild-card game at left tackle.
With Braden Smith (knee) out for a third consecutive game, the expectation is that rookie Blake Freeland will be the starter again. Veldheer will provide some depth at both tackle spots.
Fernea gets another elevation for the second week in a row after he was signed to the practice squad at the beginning of December. He will likely contribute on special teams.