Colts’ QB Anthony Richardson Ends Season on IR from Eye Injury

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is officially on injured reserve, sidelining him for the remainder of the NFL season. Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Richardson will not participate in the team’s final game against the Houston Texans due to an orbital fracture.

Injury Details and Recovery

Richardson suffered this injury during a pregame warmup in Week 6, resulting from a freak accident involving a stretching band that recoiled into his face. After initially being hospitalized, he underwent surgery on October 20 to repair his fractured orbital bone.

Although he returned to practice on December 18 and participated fully in a recent walkthrough, Richardson still faces vision limitations in his right eye. Steichen mentioned that this was a pivotal factor in deciding to keep Richardson inactive for the season’s finale.

Impact of the Injury

• Richardson played only two games this season.
• He completed one pass for nine yards, which he described as surprising.
• Despite being optimistic about his recovery, he will miss 11 games due to the injury.

According to Richardson, his vision is gradually improving. “Everything downfield is not gonna be a problem,” he explained, while noting that he faces challenges within a closer radius. He is scheduled for a follow-up appointment in January and hopes for a standard offseason training program.

Future Prospects

Richardson, who was drafted fourth overall in 2023—marking the Colts’ highest draft pick since Andrew Luck in 2012—remains hopeful about his future in the NFL. He expressed confidence in his ability to return to the field, stating, “If I still got a chance to play football, then, it’s always out there for me.”

The young quarterback’s journey has not been without obstacles. Over three seasons, he has only appeared in 17 games, compiling a record of 8-7 as a starter. His completion percentage stands at 47.7, the lowest in franchise history, along with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Quarterback Competition

Next season, Richardson may find himself competing for a backup role. After losing the starting job to Daniel Jones, who is recovering from an Achilles injury, Richardson could vie for the QB2 position against rookie sixth-round pick Riley Leonard, should he remain on the roster. The Colts also have the option to trade Richardson, as he contemplates his future.

Reflecting on his career, Richardson stated, “I always want my life to be better, better than it was before.” While setbacks have occurred, he remains focused on improving and preparing for future opportunities.