Andrew Luck is gearing up to play in an NFL contest for the first time since January 1, 2017. But he may have to get unnerved before he can take the field.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck has vigorously rehabbed his right throwing shoulder for the last 19 months for the opportunity that will come this Thursday, August 9.
Luck will participate in his first game action since January 1, 2017, and the anticipation has grown to see the 2012 No. 1 draft pick back in action. But Luck has stated that he is “very nervous” about the game, although he is participating in only one quarter.
“Nervous? I’ll be very nervous,” Luck told Peter King of NBC Sports about Thursday’s tilt.
Reports from practice have indicated that Luck’s ability to throw — and to throw deep — has been improving with more reps.
“I’ve been able to turn off the governor in my mind,” Luck said. “I’m just going out there throwing balls. There is nothing holding me back. There are some things that feel really good, like an old sweatshirt that you put on that just fits well. And there are some things that still feel awkward and new and wobbly, per se.”
Luck’s nervousness is a normal reaction for someone who has been idle from the game for some time, not to mention at such a high-profile position. An injury has the tendency to zap the confidence of an athlete, no matter the skill level. Luck, at this point, must trust his rehab process and know that he’s prepared to lead his Colts franchise.
But it will be interesting to see if Luck will return to the form of his first three seasons. With 19 months off, plenty of rehab sessions and thousands of practice throws completed, the public will have to wait until Thursday for the early verdict.