Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Anthony Richardson Facing Possible Season-Ending Injury
The Indianapolis Colts' rookie quarterback, Anthony Richardson, is likely to miss the remainder of the regular NFL season due to a shoulder injury. Richardson suffered a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder, his throwing arm, during Week 5. Colts owner Jim Irsay hinted that surgery might be on the horizon. The injury has been unfortunate for Richardson, who was selected in the 2023 NFL Draft as the fourth overall pick. Despite displaying tremendous athleticism and potential, Richardson has struggled with injuries this season and has been replaced by backup Gardner Minshew multiple times. In the absence of Richardson, Minshew will continue as the starting quarterback.
Gardner Minshew, who was previously with the Philadelphia Eagles, joined the Colts as a backup and had expected to compete for the starting role. However, Richardson's performance in the preseason earned him the Week 1 starting position. With Richardson's injuries, Minshew has seen more playing time and has posted a 1-1 record as a starter this season. He has completed 65.2% of his passes for three touchdowns and three interceptions. The Colts remain competitive in the AFC South, where the Jacksonville Jaguars are currently leading the division. The Colts, along with the Houston Texans, are tied for second place.
Despite the injuries and quarterback changes, the Colts are still in contention for the AFC South title. They face the Cleveland Browns in Week 7 as +2 home underdogs. The Browns might also be without their starting quarterback, Deshaun Watson, who is nursing a shoulder injury. The Colts have a 3-3 record against the point spread (ATS) this season and a win total of 7.5 according to oddsmakers. They are +265 to make the playoffs and -350 to miss the postseason. In Super Bowl LVIII futures, the Colts are listed at +15000 odds, near the bottom of the board.