Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson’s rookie season was unfortunately cut short by injuries. A Week 2 concussion sidelined him for Week 3, and a more serious shoulder injury in Week 5 required surgery and ended his season prematurely. However, recent updates from Colts head coach Shane Steichen offer a glimmer of hope for the young quarterback’s future.
Steichen recently commented on Richardson’s recovery, stating that he’s “making great progress.” The coach noted Richardson’s dedication to rehab, both in Indianapolis and Florida, and acknowledged the quarterback’s social media posts showcasing his throwing progress. While Steichen refrained from providing a specific timeline for Richardson’s return, his positive assessment of the quarterback’s spirits and overall progress is encouraging for Colts fans.
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The Colts drafted Richardson, a University of Florida standout, with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite his limited playing time, Richardson displayed glimpses of his potential in four games. He threw for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, completing 59.5% of his passes for an 87.3 passer rating. His dual-threat capabilities were also evident, as he rushed for 136 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 5.4 yards per carry.
While Richardson recovered, veteran Gardner Minshew stepped in and led the Colts to a respectable nine-win season, narrowly missing the playoffs. Minshew’s performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection, throwing for 3,305 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions with a 62.2% completion rate and an 84.6 passer rating.
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Despite Minshew’s solid play, the Colts remain committed to Richardson as their franchise quarterback. This offseason will be crucial for the team’s front office to build a supporting cast that maximizes Richardson’s talents. His recovery and development will undoubtedly be a key storyline to follow heading into the 2024 season.
The positive updates regarding Richardson’s recovery are a welcome sign for the Colts. While the road to full recovery may still be ongoing, his progress suggests he’s on track to compete for the starting quarterback position in 2024. The Colts’ investment in the young quarterback indicates their belief in his potential, and his return to health will be a significant factor in their pursuit of a playoff berth next season.
