INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indianapolis Colts' defense gets an enormous boost this weekend ahead of their matchup on Sunday against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, as the Colts have activated cornerback Charvarius Ward Sr. (concussion) from Injured Reserve and removed the "questionable" injury designation from both him and defensive end Tyquan Lewis (groin).

In a corresponding move, the Colts also waived cornerback Cameron Mitchell, who had been providing depth while Ward was on IR.

“It's going to help a great ton," Colts head coach Shane Steichen told reporters this week about Ward's return. "I mean, when you get an elite player like that back at the corner spot, it's huge. So, to have him and Sauce (Gardner) out there is going to be big for our defense this weekend.”

Ward has missed the last five games since going on IR with a concussion after he suffered one in Week 1 as well. This was the first week that he was eligible to return to practice, and he did so fully in each of the three days of preparation.

In four games this season, Ward has 13 tackles and three pass breakups. According to Pro Football Focus, quarterbacks have a passer rating of 71.6 when targeting him.

Two weeks ago, the Colts traded for fellow cornerback Sauce Gardner, whom they are eager to get on the field at the same time as Ward. Both players are considered high-level coverage players, so having two on the field at once gives Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo unique opportunities.

“I think it was a good trade," Ward said about the Colts acquiring Gardner. "It’s going to help our team out a lot. I don’t think I’ve ever played with a corner that was as good as me, or maybe got more talent than me in some areas. So, I’m excited to go out there and play with him.

"I feel like we can be the best duo, or one of the best duos in the league. Not trying to say too many praises, expectations, but I think me and him both (are) big dogs and we’re going to go out there and prove it every Sunday.”

As for Lewis, he suffered his injury in Week 7 in a win over the Los Angeles Chargers. He did not practice during Week 8. He practiced briefly in Week 9 but was downgraded and did not practice again until this Thursday.

In seven games this season, Lewis has seven tackles (four for loss), 3.0 sacks, three quarterback hits, and one pass breakup.

He will now make his return after four weeks away.

Jake Arthur has been covering the Indianapolis Colts for over a dozen years and is a member of the PFWA. He's one half of the Locked On Colts podcast and has worked for the Colts' official website, On SI, and more. You can follow him on X @JakeArthurNFL.

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