Indianapolis Colts facing troubling reality that could ruin playoff push

Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner uses crutches | Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesThe Indianapolis Colts accomplished two key pieces of business this offseason: Re-signing quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce. While doing so, the team traded linebacker Zaire Franklin and wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., two team captains in previous seasons. That last part cannot be overlooked.

Besides finding the chemistry needed to make a playoff push next season, something Indy has to do for general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen to keep their jobs, Indianapolis must find players to fill the leadership vacuum left by moving…