Andrew Luck in Europe for second opinion on injured shoulder
By Brian Mawyer
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck in Europe seeking treatment for his injured right shoulder.
Andrew Luck is already out for the year with an injured shoulder that has prevented him from playing this season, and now he’s seeking a second opinion after traveling overseas. ESPN has reported Luck is currently in Europe seeking treatment for the injured right shoulder that has plagued him since December 2015. Luck was placed on the injured reserve list earlier this week, and GM Chris Ballard has yet to place any realistic timetable on his return.
Luck’s history with shoulder injuries began innocently enough in a Sept. 27, 2015, game against the Tennessee Titans. Luck finished the game and threw the ball effectively in route to a victory. Luck was evaluated by team doctors, but no structural damage was found. As a precautionary measure, the Colts sat Luck for the next two games, prior to a successful return against the New England Patriots.
The injury bug continued to plague Luck throughout the next two seasons, as he suffered a lacerated kidney in a 2015 game against the Denver Broncos, which effectively ended that campaign for the young quarterback. Ironically, Luck never exited the Broncos game despite the injury, much like in the Titans game in which he injured the right shoulder initially. Luck would then fall victim to a frayed labrum last preseason.
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At this point, it is unclear what the future may hold for the talented 28-year old. The Colts have made no indication of a willingness to move on from the oft-injured quarterback, but the addition of Jacoby Brissett this season, along with the relative success and comfort with the receiving corps, has to have the organization thinking about the future.
If the Colts are looking for historic precedent for a promising, injured star coming back to have sustained success in the league, they need look no further than the New Orleans Saints. The San Diego Chargers drafted Eli Manning in 2004 to replace Drew Brees following an injury to his shoulder. Manning was ultimately traded to the New York Giants in exchange for franchise quarterback Philip Rivers.
Colts fans may be anxious regarding the future of Luck, but they should be hesitant on deals that send the quarterback elsewhere. Luck’s talent level could make for a determined enemy in the future if he is dealt.