The Indianapolis Colts are navigating through Week 17 without their second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, who has been sidelined due to a back and foot injury ahead of Sunday’s game against the Giants. In the immediate term, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco will take the field. However, NFL Media reports indicate that Richardson is expected to remain the primary starter for the Colts as they head into the 2025 season.
Richardson, a former first-round pick, has faced challenges this season, especially after being benched before Week 9 following what was perceived as fatigue during the Colts’ Week 8 game against the Texans. Despite this bump in the road, Richardson reclaimed his starting position in Week 11 and has since demonstrated his potential, leading the team to a 3-2 record in his recent outings.
While he has showcased his prowess as a dual-threat quarterback—rushing for 257 yards and five touchdowns—his passing game still requires refinement. In his last five games, Richardson has completed 51.1% of his passes, accumulating 856 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions. His recent injury marks yet another durability concern, yet the Colts are optimistic that these setbacks will not have long-term implications.
Looking ahead, the Colts are focused on providing Richardson with the necessary support to flourish as the team’s starting quarterback, rather than searching for a new option. With a full offseason ahead of him—unlike last year when he was recovering from an AC joint injury—there’s hope that Richardson will continue to develop and enhance his skills in preparation for a promising 2025 season.
This narrative encapsulates resilience and the importance of development in sports. The challenges faced by Richardson are not uncommon for young quarterbacks, and they can serve as valuable learning experiences. With strategic support from the Colts organization, Richardson’s potential for growth could lead to a strong performance in the upcoming season, igniting optimism among fans and stakeholders alike.