Anthony Richardson Faces Early Setback in Preseason

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is determined to remain on the field in 2025, having endured two injury-plagued seasons that have hampered his NFL career. However, this week brought another challenge as Richardson suffered a hand injury during the first quarter of the Colts' preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. The team quickly ruled him out with a finger injury, raising concerns about his ability to stay healthy moving forward.

A History of Injuries

Richardson's journey in the NFL has been marred by injuries since his rookie season. He only managed to participate in four games during his debut campaign due to a concussion followed by an AC joint sprain in his shoulder, which ultimately ended his season early. Following a surgical procedure on his right shoulder, he entered the 2024 season with renewed hope but faced an oblique injury that sidelined him for several games. Despite returning to the field, he found himself benched in favor of veteran Joe Flacco before reclaiming the starting position. In total, Richardson played 11 games in 2024 but struggled, amassing 1,814 passing yards, with eight touchdowns and twelve interceptions.

Looking Ahead

As Richardson aimed to position himself as the starting quarterback for the Colts, he encountered further setbacks, including missing the team’s minicamp due to lingering shoulder issues from his rookie year. Despite these challenges, Richardson is in a competitive battle for the starting role against Daniel Jones, who was signed by the Colts earlier this year. Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon remains optimistic about Richardson's potential, noting that he still has time to prove himself as the team’s starting quarterback.

The Road to Recovery

With a shared understanding that the key to Richardson's success will be his ability to stay healthy, both he and the Colts are keen on overcoming these obstacles. Irsay-Gordon remarked on the urgency for Richardson to focus on his development and performing under pressure. As the Colts prepare for the upcoming season, the hope is that Richardson can navigate his way past injuries and fulfill his role effectively.

Conclusion

As Anthony Richardson looks to establish himself as a consistent starter amidst intense competition and injury woes, his dedication to maintaining his health will be crucial. The Colts are counting on Richardson’s resilience as they plan for the future.