Colts head coach Chuck Pagano told members of the media today in his Tuesday press conference that Donnie Avery will play Saturday against the Washington Redskins. Avery has been nursing a thigh injury since training camp.

As George Bremer correctly noted on twitter, this is a big week for Avery. His NFL career could very well hinge on how well he plays in this game. The reason the Colts were able to sign Avery this offseason was because he bombed out in Tennessee the same way he flat-lined in St. Louis. He is unbelievably quick, and prior to his camp injury, he was impressing spectators with acrobatic catches during 7-on-7 drills. However, just like with the Rams and Titans, staying healthy has always been Avery's problem.

He's 5'11, 184 lbs. Guys his height and weight have trouble staying out of the trainer's room in this league.

If Avery bounces back and showcases his abilities on the football field this weekend, that is not only a boost to his career, but for the Colts as well. Austin Collie's most recent concussion leaves his shortterm and longterm future with the Colts very much in doubt. Outside of Reggie Wayne, Collie, and Avery, the Colts wideouts have virtually zero gameday experience.

Prior to Avery going down, he was working solely as the slot receiver. If Collie is out for an extended period of time, Avery could move to the outside with either LaVon Brazill, T.Y. Hilton, or the surprising Griff Whalen working in the slot.