Anthony Richardson already looks like one of the NFL‘s next exciting young stars, but the Indianapolis Colts quarterback can’t seem to stay healthy.
After going down with an injury in Week 5, Richardson is expected to miss time. But how long will the No. 4 overall pick be sidelined? Let’s take a closer look at Richardson’s injury and recovery timeline.
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What Happened to Anthony Richardson?
Richardson went down hard against the Tennessee Titans in Week 5. Tackled by Titans pass rusher Harold Landry III following a four-yard run, Richardson appeared to injure his right shoulder.
#Colts rookie QB Anthony Richardson was injured on this play.
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 8, 2023
Richardson’s right arm was immobilized as trainers led him to the Colts’ locker room. While Indianapolis initially listed Richardson as questionable to return, the club soon ruled him out for the rest of the game.
On the following Monday, Richardson was diagnosed with a Grade 3 AC joint sprain in his right throwing shoulder, according to NFL Network.
How Long Will Richardson Be Out?
While Richardson was initially expected to miss 4-6 weeks, his recovery timeline now seems less clear.
On Oct. 11, Indianapolis officially placed Richardson on injured reserve. He will be forced to miss at least four games before returning to the field.
However, ESPN reported that Richardson could be sidelined for as many as eight weeks.
Richardson is believed to be seeking multiple opinions on his shoulder injury. His timetable will eventually be determined by whether or not he undergoes surgery, per ESPN.
Shane Steichen on Anthony Richardson: pic.twitter.com/XF1OCKALov
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) October 11, 2023
Speaking to the media on Oct. 11, Colts head coach Shane Steichen didn’t offer much of an update on Richardson, only noting the club would “continue to evaluate that process.”
Does Steichen expect Richardson to return this season?
“We’ll see,” Steichen said. “We’re still evaluating with the doctors.”
Impact of Richardson’s Injury
Richardson had already shown off his dynamic ability, completing 60% of his passes for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception while adding 136 yards and four more scores on the ground.
But he’s also shown a proclivity for injuries. In addition to his current health issue, Richardson missed most of Week 2 and all of Week 3 after suffering a concussion.
MORE: Fantasy Impact Following Anthony Richardson’s Injury
Gardner Minshew, who worked with Steichen with the Philadelphia Eagles, will take over under center for the Colts. Minshew completed 11 of 14 attempts for 155 yards after relieving Richardson in Week 5 and has 83 pass attempts under his belt this season.
With Richardson out for at least the next four games, Minshew will make starts against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Carolina Panthers.
Minshew inked a one-year, $3.5 million deal with Indianapolis over the offseason, but he can earn more via playtime incentives.
He’ll receive $500,000 for reaching 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% of the Colts’ offensive snaps, per Greg Auman of The Athletic. Four more starts would allow Minshew to cross the 30% threshold and approach the 40% mark.