The Indianapolis Colts aren't taking any chances with Ahmad Bradshaw.
The team announced Tuesday that the veteran running back has been placed on the physically unable to perform list. Bradshaw is recovering from offseason surgery on his right foot.
The news isn't a surprise when you factor in Bradshaw was still in a walking boot as of last month. It was concerns about his injury history that allowed the Colts to scoop up the two-time Super Bowl champion in June.
Bradshaw can come off the PUP list at any time, so it's premature to assume Vick Ballard is heading toward a golden opportunity to entrench himself with the first team. The Colts don't begin practicing until Sunday, leaving the remote possibility Bradshaw could come off the PUP list without missing anything.
When healthy, Bradshaw is an upgrade over Ballard and a solid fit in the Colts' offense under new offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton. But Bradshaw will have to get on the field first.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.