Indianapolis Colts coach Frank Reich would rather buck tradition than risk injuries in Saturday’s third preseason game against the visiting Chicago Bears.
Reich said Wednesday he has decided not to play most of his starters in a game that is typically used as a “dress rehearsal” for the NFL regular season.
Reich said the overall health of his team is his top priority, adding that it also provides an opportunity for the second- and third-team players to get more reps.
“Right now the best thing is we’re looking to figure out who are the guys that are going to be on the roster,” he said. “There’s spots open. This is very competitive.”
Coming off a 10-6 campaign that included a wild-card playoff win against the Houston Texans, the Colts open the regular season at the Los Angeles Chargers on Sept. 8.
