Andrew Luck closer, Hasselbeck hurting

(Photo: Robert_Scheer_The Star)Injured Colts quarterback Andrew Luck could return to the practice field as early as this week, although whether he plays in Sunday’s huge game against the Houston Texans is still very much in doubt.

Luck today strongly suggested he’ll practice this week, now about five weeks after suffering a lacerated kidney on Nov. 8.

Asked whether he'll unequivocally return, Luck said, "Yes. Absolutely."

“The hope is that you can start practicing before (being cleared to play) so that when you are clear, you can hit the ground running,” Luck said. “I am such a big believer in practice and always will be. You can’t just show up after however many weeks and practice for a week,…