Several Colts starters out vs. Vikings

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - It appears the Colts will be missing a few more starters for their first preseason game against the Vikings on Friday at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Tight end Dallas Clark hasn't practiced this week but should return Monday after suffering a slight concussion and right tackle Ryan Diem has some back problems. To make matters worse, Pro Bowl safety Antoine Bethea has cracked a bone in his right hand, leaving him on the sideline for both of the team's practices Wednesday.

Coach Jim Caldwell did not give a timetable for Bethea's return. Caldwell said Bethea would be fitted for a cast and would return when he can play while wearing that cast.

Caldwell said veterans like Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne and Jeff Saturday have shown great leadership during camp. And just like some of the veterans, the rookies can't wait to play on Friday when the Vikings come to town.

If nothing else, Friday is a chance for the Colts to compete against someone other than each other.

“I think you'll see a number of excited young men get an opportunity to play in a great venue, obviously against a very, very talented team. So it will be fun and it's good for us too. We also find out what we have, that's when you find out, obviously. When the guys hit the field and have the opportunity to play, we'll see how they measure up,” said Caldwell.

The Colts return to the practice field on Thursday for their only practice at 9:30 a.m. on the Rose Hulman Campus in Terre Haute.