After going down with a shoulder injury late in the second quarter Sunday, it looks like Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson will miss an extended period of time.
In the Colts’ matchup against the Tennessee Titans, Richardson took a hit after running to the right side. He then stayed on the ground and grabbed at his right shoulder.
Let’s take a closer look at Richardson’s injury situation with up-to-date information regarding the injury and his possible timeline to return.
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What Is Anthony Richardson’s Injury?
On a four-yard run, Richardson was tackled by Titans linebacker Harold Landry III, and his right shoulder hit the ground as Landry fell on top of him.
#Colts rookie QB Anthony Richardson was injured on this play.
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 8, 2023
After the injury, Richardson was able to walk off the field under his own power and walked to the locker room with the help of trainers. His right arm was completely immobilized, and he was later ruled out for the rest of the game.
The rookie finished the game with 9 of 12 passing for 98 yards and five rushing yards. He has only finished one game this season after suffering a left knee injury in Week 1 and a concussion in Week 2 that left him out the following week.
Richardson reportedly received a diagnosis of a Grade 3 AC joint sprain. He had an MRI, and the team is awaiting the results to confirm the diagnosis.
Sources: #Colts starting QB Anthony Richardson received an initial diagnosis of a Grade 3 AC joint sprain, which would mean he’d miss a month or more. He has an MRI this morning to confirm.
Either way, it’s likely Gardner Minshew next week and moving forward. pic.twitter.com/27Z04eGlJL
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 9, 2023
How Much Time Is Richardson Expected To Miss?
Richardson will likely miss a month or more and is expected to hit injured reserve (IR).
The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported that the team is expecting Richardson to be out for four to six weeks, meaning the earliest he would return would be in Week 10 against the New England Patriots on Nov. 12.
The Colts’ quarterback will reportedly seek other opinions on the injury, and the recovery plan could include surgery. Further assessments will be made to determine the extent of the injury.
Impact on Colts’ Offense
Gardner Minshew took Richardson’s place against the Titans and will be the starter moving forward. After stepping in for Richardson this past Sunday, Minshew completed 11 of 14 pass attempts for 155 yards.
MORE: Indianapolis Colts Depth Chart 2023
Minshew has seen plenty of action in the wake of Richardson’s numerous injuries this season. He finished wins over the Titans and the Texans and led the team to a Week 3 victory over the Ravens in overtime, where he threw for 227 yards and a touchdown.
Throughout the season so far, Minshew has completed 57 of 83 pass attempts for 553 yards and two touchdowns. The Colts are fortunate to have an experienced backup to step into the starting role for the next few weeks.