INDIANAPOLIS — Following a game in which Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson admitted to feeling fatigued, coach Shane Steichen has indicated that he is assessing all aspects of the team’s quarterback situation, including whether Richardson will start against Minnesota next weekend.
Selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson has faced challenges in the two games since returning from an earlier right hip injury, which he stated has impacted his throwing ability due to reduced torque.
In addition to his hip issue, Richardson appeared to sustain a left hand injury in the 23-20 loss to Houston, leaving the Colts two games behind the Texans in the AFC South and suffering a tiebreaker disadvantage after losing both contests against their division rivals.
As the Colts (4-4) look ahead, the future remains uncertain. Steichen confirmed Richardson is still the starter “as of right now,” but when questioned about his start for next week, he maintained, “We’re evaluating.” The Colts had high hopes for Richardson to stabilize a position that has seen seven different opening-day starters over the past seven seasons. This year, he made history as the first quarterback since Andrew Luck to start in consecutive openers for the Colts.
However, Richardson’s performance has raised various concerns. While he has won half of his 10 NFL starts in two seasons, injuries have limited his ability to finish six out of those ten games, leading him to miss 15 in total. His statistics paint a concerning picture: he ranks at the bottom of the league with a 44.4% completion rate this season, having completed 20 of 56 passes for 364 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, along with two lost fumbles since his return.
The struggles have led some fans to suggest that backup Joe Flacco may offer a better chance for the Colts to secure a playoff spot. Richardson did not improve perceptions when he candidly stated that he left the Houston game due to tiredness. “Tired. I ain’t going to lie,” he admitted. “That was a lot of running right there that I did, and I didn’t think I was going to be able to do that next play.” Recently, the Colts have averaged 303 total yards and 18.7 points per game, which both Steichen and Richardson recognize as insufficient for consistent victories. This may lead to changes in the lineup, specifically at quarterback.
Steichen pointed out that Richardson needs to understand he cannot take himself out during crucial moments, emphasizing that this scenario is more about learning than a direct response to that incident. “It’s a learning experience for him and he’s got to grow from it,” he remarked.
On a positive note, running back Jonathan Taylor showed signs of returning to his former All-Pro form, whether due to good health, playing alongside Richardson, or a combination of factors. He rushed for over 100 yards for the 19th time in his career and added a reception for 12 yards.
Defensively, the Colts’ run defense continues to be an area needing improvement. Although the return of All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is anticipated to bolster the defensive front, the unit had problems against Houston, with Joe Mixon rushing 25 times for 102 yards and a touchdown.
Second-year wide receiver Josh Downs proved to be a bright spot, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability on the field. He has become a valuable asset for the Colts, and the coaching staff is encouraged to find innovative ways to incorporate him into the game plan.
Regarding fellow wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., despite his tough demeanor and effort to play through a back injury, his performance has declined since his injury. He has only managed seven receptions for 114 yards over the last three weeks while dealing with critical game drops and penalties that impeded scoring.
In injury news, Taylor, Buckner, and linebacker E.J. Speed returned to play, and Richardson finished the game healthy. However, backup safety Trevor Denbow suffered a significant knee injury during the game, and Monday brought concerns about left tackle Bernhard Raiman, who reported concussion symptoms and is now in the protocol.
As for the standing, the Colts are essentially three games behind the Texans in the division race. Looking ahead, Steichen has a few days to finalize his strategies before facing the Vikings and will likely determine which adjustments are necessary by midweek, even if he opts not to disclose those changes publicly.