Ahmad Bradshaw might need season-ending neck surgery

Mike Chappell | The Indianapolis Star

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts are hopeful but concerned regarding the immediate and long-term status of running back Ahmad Bradshaw, according to a team source.

Ideally, the neck injury, suffered against the San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 22, will heal on its own with treatment and rest.

However, the source added there is a level of concern that surgery might be required, which would bring into question Bradshaw's status for the remainder of the season.

Attempts to reach Drew Rosenhaus, Bradshaw's agent, have been unsuccessful. Colts general manager Ryan Grigson was not immediately available for comment.

Wednesday, coach Chuck Pagano indicated he still was awaiting definitive word on Bradshaw from the team's doctors and trainers.

"I'm planning on him being around,'' Pagano said. "Certainly he won't be at practice. We've made some adjustments for that.

"Once we get some feedback, once we get some answers, then we'll know more.''

It is unknown when the injury occurred, but Bradshaw left the game temporarily on the second play of the second quarter following a 1-yard run. Bradshaw got to his feet, then went back to the ground. He eventually walked off under his own power.

On the sideline, trainers worked on Bradshaw's left shoulder. He returned to the game and finished with a game-high 95 yards on 19 carries, with a touchdown.

The Colts signed Bradshaw, 27, to a one-year deal that could be worth as much as $2 million in June. In three appearances, he's rushed for 186 yards and two touchdowns. Bradshaw has been hurt chronically. While with the New York Giants, he was plagued by foot injuries and often played through pain.

With Bradshaw out, Trent Richardson and Donald Brown have shared the workload. Richardson had 60 yards on 20 carries in last Sunday's win at Jacksonville while Brown added a team-high 65 yards on three carries.

Earlier this season, running back Vick Ballard suffered a season-ending knee injury in practice.

Despite the injuries, the Colts have the NFL's No. 4-ranked rushing attack, averaging 149.5 yards per game.

Chappell covers the Colts for the Indianapolis Star, a Gannett property.

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