Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is reportedly in jeopardy of being shut down for the remainder of the season by the shoulder injury he suffered in Week 5.
Richardson, who already missed time earlier this season with a concussion, suffered an AC joint sprain against the Tennessee Titans last Sunday. Indianapolis feared it would be a long-term issue that sidelined him for multiple games and the initial assessment was accurate.
- Anthony Richardson stats 2023: 577 pass yards, 3-1 TD-INT, 87.3 QB rating, 136 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns in four contests
Related: Indianapolis Colts have long-term injury concerns with Anthony Richardson
The standout rookie was diagnosed with a Grade 3 AC sprain, immediately landing him on injured reserve. Initial estimates had the Colts’ quarterback missing at least six weeks, but it was far more likely to be two months. Now, it appears Richardson’s season might be over.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Richardson is strongly considering season-ending shoulder surgery that would not allow him to return until the summer of 2024.
When Richardson went for second opinions on his shoulder this week, some of the top medical experts recommended season-ending shoulder surgery. After speaking to upwards of five different experts, Indianapolis is leaning toward Richardson undergoing the procedure.
There is some good news for the Colts’ long-term. Doctors agree with the initial diagnosis of the MRI results, determining that the labrum in Richardson’s throwing shoulder was not torn. In fact, the ligaments reportedly looked even better than expected.
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The likely season-ending injury comes just a week after Indianapolis extended running back Jonathan Taylor, bringing the All-Pro offensive weapon back into the fold. However, the dynamic duo the Colts’ coaching staff hoped would lead their offense for the remainder of the season will now have played just a few snaps together in 2023.
A final decision on surgery is expected in the coming days, but the expectation is Richardson will undergo the procedure. As of now, there are no concerns it would even jeopardize his status for Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season. Gardner Minshew will be the Colts’ starting quarterback moving forward.