Jason Burgos
The Indianapolis Colts reportedly could lose rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson for much longer than what some originally predicted after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 5.
As the team heads into a big NFL Week 6 divisional clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars, there is optimism surrounding the Indianapolis Colts. After finishing with a 4-12-1 record last season, they are 3-2 currently and one of the nice surprises so far in the AFC.
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Rookie Anthony Richardson has been a big help in their solid start to the 2023 campaign, however, whatever positives he brought to the team’s offense they reportedly will have to do without it for a very long time.
In Week 5, the 21-year-old landed hard on his shoulder during a tackle and was in noticeable pain after the play. He was taken to the locker room soon after and never returned for their 23-16 win over the Titans.
- Anthony Richardson stats (2023): 713 total yards, 7 total TDs, 87.3 passer rating
Indianapolis Colts record (2023): 3-2
It was revealed after the game that the fourth overall pick in April’s draft had an AC joint sprain, and on Wednesday he was officially placed on injured reserves. This would automatically rule him out for the team’s next four games — against the Jaguars, Browns, Saints, and Panthers. However, a new report suggests it could be much longer than that.
After being placed on IR, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter that “The team has been doing extensive consultation with doctors to determine the length of Richardson’s absence and now believes he will miss between four and eight weeks depending on his rehab and whether surgery is required.”
If true, the worst-case scenario would mean that Richardson would not be back until the Indianapolis Colts game in Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. By then they could very well be out of the playoff chase.
Former Philadelphia Eagles backup Gardner Minshew will not take the reigns of the offense for the foreseeable future.
