The Indianapolis Colts have benched starting quarterback Anthony Richardson in favor of veteran Joe Flacco, raising questions about the team’s direction and Richardson’s future. This surprising move comes after Richardson’s early exit from the Week 12 game against the Houston Texans.
Anthony Richardson #5 of the Indianapolis Colts celebrates a touchdown with Josh Downs #1 during the first quarter against the Houston Texans at NR…Photo: Carmen Mandato/Getty Images. Anthony Richardson celebrates a touchdown earlier in the season.
The Colts’ decision to bench their young quarterback, the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has sent shockwaves through the league. Richardson’s “tap out” incident, where he reportedly removed himself from the game due to fatigue, appears to have been the final straw for head coach Shane Steichen.
Richardson’s Fatigue Incident Sparks Controversy
Richardson’s self-removal from the Texans game drew criticism and confusion from fans and analysts alike. While the young quarterback has shown flashes of potential, his inconsistent play and questionable decision-making have raised concerns about his readiness to lead an NFL team. The incident against Houston magnified those concerns, leading to Steichen’s decision to bench him for the remainder of the season in favor of the experienced Flacco.
Flacco’s Opportunity and Prior Performance
Flacco, a seasoned veteran with a Super Bowl ring on his resume, now has the opportunity to prove he can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL. He’s already seen action this season, filling in for an injured Richardson earlier in the year. In his limited appearances, Flacco has demonstrated his ability to manage the game effectively, throwing for seven touchdowns and only one interception in three games.
Anthony Richardson #5 of the Indianapolis Colts drops back to pass against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game at NRG …Photo: Cooper Neill/Getty Images. Anthony Richardson in action against the Houston Texans.
His performance in 2023 with the Cleveland Browns, where he led the team to a playoff berth after Deshaun Watson’s injury, further solidifies his reputation as a reliable backup capable of stepping into a starting role.
Colts Teammate Voices Support for Richardson’s Future
Despite the benching, Richardson still has supporters within the Colts organization. Wide receiver Josh Downs expressed confidence in Richardson’s potential, stating that he believes Richardson will eventually regain the starting position. Downs acknowledged Flacco’s age (40) as a limiting factor and emphasized Richardson’s youth (23) and high draft status as reasons for optimism. He firmly believes Richardson will start again in the NFL. This vote of confidence from a teammate suggests that Richardson’s career is far from over.
Looking Ahead: The Colts and Richardson’s Development
The Colts now face a critical juncture in their season. With Flacco at the helm, they will look to salvage what they can from the remaining games. Meanwhile, Richardson’s benching allows him to focus on his development and learn from the sidelines. The Colts’ long-term plan at quarterback remains uncertain, but Richardson’s benching signifies a shift in focus towards immediate results and Flacco’s veteran leadership. This situation will undoubtedly be a major storyline to follow in the coming weeks. Can Flacco lead the Colts to success, or will this move simply delay the inevitable return of Richardson?
