Anthony Richardson elects season-ending surgery, ending rookie year
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Anthony Richardson has played his last game in 2023. Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen confirmed Wednesday that Richardson has decided to have surgery on his throwing shoulder, ending his rookie season.
Richardson’s decision comes ahead of the NFL’s Week 7. The former Florida quarterback played in 4 games, going 50-of-84 passing for 577 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception, while rushing 25 times for 136 yards and 4 scores. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson also spent time in concussion protocol.
“I thought when he played, he was explosive and he was electric,” Steichen said. “He gives us an opportunity every time he steps on the field — just his big-play ability, throwing the ball downfield, the runs he had, the touchdown runs. There is tremendous opportunity going forward.”
In Richardson’s absence, the Colts are turning to Gardner Minshew, a veteran with starting experience. When Richardson suffered his shoulder injury in Week 5, Minshew came in off the bench and helped secure Indianapolis’ win over the Tennessee Titans. In Week 6, the Colts fell 37-20 on the road against Jacksonville, Minshew’s former team.
Indianapolis is currently projected to receive the No. 15 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. It will be interesting to see if the Colts use their first-round pick to add to Richardson’s supporting cast.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
