Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson made his return in NFL Week 7 against the Miami Dolphins after a two-week absence due to an oblique injury. This marked a significant comeback for the second-year player, who had missed a large portion of the previous season.
In the game, Richardson struggled with his passing, completing only 10 of 24 attempts for 129 yards. He also led the team in rushing with 56 yards on 14 carries. The Colts faced difficulties, with six drives resulting in three-and-outs by the end of the third quarter, and both drives in the fourth quarter ending with field goal attempts.
On third downs, Richardson’s performance was subpar, as he only completed 1 of 7 passes for 10 yards and managed to gain a first down. Additionally, he had four rushes that accounted for 33 yards on third-down plays. Notably, he did not throw any passes in the red zone but was responsible for a turnover due to a mishandled handoff.
Highlights from Richardson’s performance included a unique double-reverse flea-flicker play that gained 13 yards. He struggled with accuracy throughout the game, finishing the third quarter with 5 completions on 18 attempts for 64 passing yards, while adding 47 rushing yards.
In the first quarter, Richardson only recorded 14 passing yards and 30 rushing yards, with a notable turnover occurring from a botched handoff. On a more positive note, he did connect with Michael Pittman Jr. for a 33-yard gain, helping set up a field goal before halftime.
As of Week 7, Richardson’s overall stats include 49 completed passes out of 101 attempts for 783 yards, with three touchdowns and six interceptions, in addition to four sacks and 197 rushing yards on 35 carries.
Richardson is currently in the second year of a four-year rookie contract, which has a total value of nearly $34 million, impacting the Colts’ salary cap by $7.725 million this season.
In contrast, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has also seen action with the Colts this season, completing 71 of 108 passes for 716 yards and seven touchdowns against one interception, while being sacked six times. His contract represents a $5 million hit to the salary cap for the year.