Anthony Richardson’s absence from Sunday’s recreation towards the Jaguars as a consequence of a strained indirect opened the door for veteran Joe Flacco to shine.
The 39-year-old backup almost orchestrated a fourth-quarter comeback, finishing a formidable 75% of his passes for 359 yards and three touchdowns.
Regardless of Flacco’s heroics, Colts head coach Shane Steichen made it clear that Richardson’s beginning place isn’t in jeopardy.
NFL Insider Ari Meirov reported that Steichen advised reporters on Monday, “He’s our beginning quarterback,” affirming Richardson’s position as soon as he recovers from his indirect harm.
#Colts HC Shane Steichen made it clear right now that Anthony Richardson would be the beginning quarterback as soon as he is totally wholesome. Joe Flacco is the backup. pic.twitter.com/223RkOiQUm
Properly, Flacco’s efficiency, which earned him a 121.3 ranking, was essentially the most yardage seen from a Colts quarterback since Matt Ryan’s 389-yard recreation towards Jacksonville in 2022.
Whereas, it’s been a rocky highway for the younger quarterback. Richardson’s rookie 12 months was lower brief after simply 4 video games as a consequence of shoulder surgical procedure, and his 2024 begin hasn’t been clean crusing both.
The 22-year-old has accomplished solely 50.6% of his passes, accumulating 654 yards, three touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. He’s additionally proven his mobility, dashing for 141 yards and a rating.
Steichen, nevertheless, isn’t shopping for into the notion that beginning Richardson means sacrificing wins for the sake of growth.
He believes the staff can compete now whereas additionally nurturing their future franchise quarterback.
Richardson returned to observe final week in a restricted capability, however his availability for Sunday’s recreation towards the Titans stays unsure.
The Colts are undoubtedly hoping for his return, however solely time will inform if he’ll be able to take the sphere.
