Kofi Inkoom
As a rookie, Richardson managed to start in four games, completing 50 out of 84 passes for a total of 577 yards.
In an announcement made by Colts Owner and CEO Jim Irsay on Wednesday, it was revealed that quarterback Anthony Richardson will need to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery.
“After consultation with our medical staff, Anthony, and those close to him, it has been determined that he will undergo surgery to repair his injured shoulder, which will end his season,” Irsay said. “Anthony is a competitor, and we know how difficult and disappointing this is for him and our team. We collected several medical opinions and we felt this was the best course of action for his long-term health. We anticipate a full recovery and there is no doubt Anthony has a promising future. In the meantime, I love the fight of this team and I’m excited for the opportunity we have ahead of us. It starts this week with Cleveland.”
Richardson suffered an AC joint injury in his right (throwing) shoulder during a second-quarter running play in the Colts’ Week 5 victory against the Tennessee Titans.
The 2023 No. 4 overall draft pick landed on injured reserve last week as he and the Colts engaged in an extensive evaluation to decide on the most suitable course of action.
This week, Richardson and the Colts concluded that surgery was the necessary step. Consequently, his debut season as a rookie quarterback will conclude after just four starts.
During this time, he managed to complete 50 of 84 passes (59.5 percent) for 577 yards, registering an average of 6.9 yards per attempt. He contributed three touchdowns, one interception, and boasted a passer rating of 87.3.
Richardson also rushed 25 times for 136 yards, averaging 5.4 yards per attempt, and scored four touchdowns.
The Colts will proceed in the 2023 season with a 3-3 record, with the experienced Gardner Minshew taking charge at quarterback.
While Minshew had his share of struggles, throwing three interceptions and losing a fumble in the Week 6 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, he played a significant role in all three of the Colts’ victories this season.
Notably, he holds the sixth-lowest interception percentage (1.7 percent) in NFL history among quarterbacks with a minimum of 1,000 attempts.
Following the Colts’ loss in Jacksonville, wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. conveyed advice to Richardson, urging him to focus on his long-term career rather than rushing his return.
Pittman emphasized Richardson’s role as the franchise quarterback, brought in to potentially lead the team for the next 15 years.
He encouraged Richardson to remain mentally tough and assured him that he was handling the situation admirably, despite the difficulties of missing playing time and the desire to contribute.
Richardson’s commitment to his recovery and well-considered approach were praised by Pittman.