The Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday that after further review, rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson will see his first professional season come to an end after just six weeks.
In Week 5, the Indianapolis Colts first-round pick landed hard on his throwing shoulder after a tackle as he looked to extend a play in their eventual win over the Tennessee Titans. The hit forced him out of the game and began a series of reports on how long it might take him to recover from an apparent sprained AC joint.
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While there was some hope he might return later this season after a stay on injured reserve, those aspirations are no longer possible. On Wednesday, the team revealed in a statement that Richardson has decided to undergo surgery on his shoulder and will miss the remainder of the 2023 NFL season.
“After consultation with our medical staff, Anthony, and those close to him, it has been determined that he will undergo surgery to repair his injured shoulder, which will end his season. Anthony is a competitor, and we know how difficult and disappointing this is for him and our team,” Colts owner Jim Irsay said in the statement. “We collected several medical opinions and we felt this was the best course of action for his long-term health. We anticipate a full recovery and there is no doubt Anthony has a promising future.”
- Anthony Richardson stats (2023): 713 total yards, 7 TD, 3 turnovers
Anthony Richardson played in just four games for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023
It is very disappointing news for the Colts organization after the 21-year-old had a very solid start to his NFL career. The Florida Gators standout played in just four games, however, the team had a 2-2 record in those matchups and he showcased his potential as an elite-level dual threat.
In his four starts, Richardson racked up seven touchdowns, with four of them coming on the ground. He twice threw for over 200 yards and finished with a 59.6 completion percentage and 87.8 passer rating in his rookie campaign.
Veteran backup Gardner Minshew will now take over the offense for the remainder of the Colts’ season.