As Colts shut down Anthony Richardson for season, don’t underestimate lessons learned from Andrew Luck

Injury Ends 2023 No. 4 Pick Anthony Richardson’s Rookie Season

The Indianapolis Colts announced that quarterback Anthony Richardson will undergo surgery to repair his shoulder, effectively ending his rookie year.

Richardson suffered the shoulder injury during a tackle on a run against the Tennessee Titans on October 8.

This injury sparks painful memories for the Colts organization, as they previously experienced a similar situation with quarterback Andrew Luck, their first overall pick in the 2012 draft. Luck had a successful career, earning four Pro Bowl berths, including a league-best 40 touchdowns in 2014. However, he missed the 2017 season due to a shoulder injury and ultimately retired in 2019 due to the toll of constant rehabilitation.

The Colts are determined to ensure Richardson’s long-term health and avoid a repeat of their past experiences. Owner Jim Irsay expressed the team’s concern after going through the ordeal with Luck. Richardson, along with those close to him and the medical staff, decided that surgery was the best course of action.

Richardson’s shoulder injury is his third in just four games. He previously suffered a knee and ankle injury in Week 1, followed by a concussion in Week 2.

Irsay dismissed concerns about Richardson’s running style, stating that the shoulder injury happened during a normal tackle and not due to excessive risk-taking.

Richardson showed promise during his limited playing time, completing 59.5% of his passes for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. He also rushed for 136 yards and four touchdowns. In his absence, Gardner Minshew has taken over as the Colts’ quarterback.

Despite the disappointment of Richardson’s injury, the Colts remain optimistic about his future. Irsay praised Richardson’s leadership, maturity, intelligence, and athletic ability, believing that he and Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud are the future stars of the NFL.

The Colts’ focus now is on Richardson’s recovery and ensuring his long-term success.

Meanwhile, the team will rely on Minshew to lead them as they compete in the AFC South race.

Richardson’s rookie year may be over, but the Colts are confident that he has a bright future ahead.

Dreaming of a full recovery, Irsay compared Richardson to a young Bruce Springsteen, declaring him the future of the NFL.