NFL Futures and News: Colts’ QB Dilemma

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Colts’ QB Dilemma: Managing Anthony Richardson’s Injury Concerns

Anthony Richardson’s injury concerns have become a focal point for the Indianapolis Colts, mainly as NFL Futures reflect uncertainty around his availability.

As the face of the franchise, Richardson’s durability is under scrutiny after multiple injuries, leaving the Colts to evaluate how to balance his dynamic skill set with the risk of injury.

Richardson’s Injury History

Richardson has shown flashes of brilliance as the Colts’ starting quarterback, leading Indianapolis to a 2-2 record. However, the young QB has struggled to stay on the field. 

In his latest outing, a 27-24 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Richardson was forced out of the game after just 13 snaps due to a right hip injury. This marked the fourth time in eight NFL starts that Richardson has been sidelined by injury.

The injuries have followed a concerning pattern. Richardson’s rookie season in 2023 was cut short by an AC joint sprain, and he also suffered a concussion and a knee bruise earlier in his career. Notably, all his NFL injuries have occurred on run plays, often when sliding wasn’t an option. 

This physical style of play raises questions about how the Colts will manage their quarterback moving forward.

The Dilemma for the Colts

Head coach Shane Steichen has emphasized that Richardson’s running ability is crucial to his uniqueness. Comparing his approach to using Richardson’s legs to Steph Curry’s three-point shooting, Steichen has doubled on letting Richardson use his mobility. However, Richardson’s aggressive running style exposes him to frequent hits, contributing to his injury woes.

After Richardson’s latest injury, there was speculation about whether the Colts would scale back his running plays to preserve his health. 

Steichen remains committed to leveraging Richardson’s legs but acknowledged the need for a balance. “We’ve gotta be smart,” Steichen said, emphasizing the importance of making big plays with his feet while minimizing injury risks.

The Path Forward

Richardson’s physical attributes are undeniable. At 244 pounds, with a 4.43-second 40-yard dash time, he brings a rare combination of size and speed to the quarterback position. 

He’s already racked up 277 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 46 carries in his young NFL career. However, durability remains a significant concern, as Richardson has exited 50 percent of his starts due to injury.

For the Colts, managing Richardson’s health will be crucial to their future success. While his rushing ability adds a dynamic element to the offense, the team may need to adjust how they use him to avoid further injury setbacks. 

As Richardson continues to develop, his ability to stay on the field will be pivotal in determining his long-term future and the Colts’ trajectory in the NFL.