JACKSONVILLE — Anthony Richardson will be sidelined for the Colts’ game against the Jaguars due to hip and oblique injuries sustained last week during the matchup with the Steelers.
In his absence, the Colts will turn to Joe Flacco, aiming to break a nine-year winless streak against the Jaguars in Jacksonville.
Richardson is listed as inactive for Sunday’s game, alongside center Ryan Kelly, running back Jonathan Taylor, cornerback Kenny Moore II, defensive end Kwity Paye, tackle Blake Freeland, and wide receiver Anthony Gould.
After being downgraded from questionable to doubtful on Saturday, Richardson’s chances of playing had diminished throughout the week. Though he practiced in a limited capacity, he did not throw any deep passes during media-accessible sessions and consistently took reps behind Flacco.
The injury occurred during a first-quarter run against the Steelers, where Richardson attempted to return for another play but quickly realized he lacked the necessary acceleration to make it to the goal line.
While the Colts have not deemed his injury as long-term, it has become unmanageable for him to play this week.
Flacco will be making his first start with the Colts, having previously replaced Richardson last week and leading the team to a 27-24 win over the Steelers by completing 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers.
This game marks Flacco’s 186th regular season start and his fifth with a different team. He previously started five games for the Browns last season and was recognized as the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year.
As for fantasy considerations, Flacco has not been a prominent player in recent years until his stint with the Browns, where he threw for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns in five games. Given Richardson’s absence, Flacco may be a valuable addition for fantasy players.
Anthony Richardson is currently 22 years old, set to turn 23 on May 22. This season, he has completed only 50.6% of his passes for 654 yards, with three touchdowns and an NFL-leading six interceptions, resulting in a passer rating of 60.2. Additionally, Richardson has rushed for 141 yards and one touchdown on 21 attempts this season.