Colts' Nyheim Hines ruled out of game due to concussion protocol

DENVER — Indianapolis Colts running back Nyheim Hines left Thursday night's game against the Denver Broncos after taking a hard hit and has been ruled out due to the NFL's concussion protocol.

Hines was hurt on the game's opening drive. He stumbled as he got to his feet and was taken to the locker room to be evaluated.

Hines potentially displayed an example of «gross motor instability» after taking the hit, an aspect of the concussion protocol currently being discussed by the NFL and NFL Players Association in the wake of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's concussion in last week's Thursday night game in Cincinnati.

Tagovailoa remained in the game against the Buffalo Bills on Sept. 25 after struggling to get to his feet after a hit. He left the game before being cleared to return, only to be hospitalized in last week's game after taking another hit to the head.

Hines' absence exacerbates the Colts' difficult running back situation with All-Pro Jonathan Taylor missing tonight's game with an ankle injury. That leaves Deon Jackson and former Broncos standout Phillip Lindsay to carry the load.