Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has confirmed that quarterback Anthony Richardson would require shoulder surgery to finish the season. “Anthony is a competitor, and we know how difficult and disappointing this is for him and our team,” Irsay stated. “After obtaining multiple expert opinions, we concluded that this was the most appropriate course of action for his long-term health. Anthony’s future is bright, and we hope he makes a full recovery.”
Irsay told ESPN’s Stephen Holder on Monday that season-ending surgery was a possibility for the rookie signal-caller.
Holder followed up to report how Andrew Luck’s shoulder injury in 2015 and its aftermath was influencing the Colts’ approach to Richardson. His sources “emphasized Richardson’s long-term outlook is driving the decision-making.”
Unfortunately for he and the Colts, injuries quickly accumulated for the No. 4 overall pick. In addition to the sprained AC joint that ultimately ended his year, he suffered a concussion and came away banged up from a Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Being extra cautious with Richardson makes obvious sense for Indianapolis because the team is expecting him to lead the offense for years to come. Acting expeditiously also means his status won’t be a lingering storyline throughout the year. Everybody can move forward knowing there’s no chance of him making a comeback.
Now, the question is whether the Colts do anything to bolster their quarterback room.
Gardner Minshew has been the starter so far in Richardson’s absence, going 60-of-99 for 556 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in his two starts so far. Should Indy not get swept up in “Minshew Magic,” Sam Ehlinger would be the next choice.
