Indianapolis Colts Plunge Into QB Uncertainty As Anthony Richardson’s Shoulder Flares Up Again
Colts QB Anthony Richardson reinjures his shoulder, fueling Daniel Jones’ shot at regaining an NFL starting job—training camp fate uncertain.
| Quick Facts |
|---|
| 17 games missed by Anthony Richardson due to injuries since 2023 |
| $14 million — Daniel Jones’ Colts contract for 2025 |
| July 22 — Colts training camp start date |
| 3 straight practices missed by Richardson this week |
The Indianapolis Colts face another intense offseason twist: franchise quarterback Anthony Richardson has aggravated his surgically repaired right shoulder, forcing him out of both voluntary practices and the critical mandatory minicamp next week.
Coach Shane Steichen confirmed Thursday that Richardson’s setback couldn’t have come at a worse time. The team must now confront the very risk their front office foreshadowed—Richardson’s durability—while new challenger Daniel Jones senses real opportunity.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in 2023, had been locked in a high-stakes competition with Jones, a former first-rounder eager to revive his career after a turbulent exit from the New York Giants. This latest injury could change everything.
What Happened to Anthony Richardson?
Richardson, just months after battling through a tough rookie campaign marred by a torn AC joint in his throwing shoulder, approached trainers last week with familiar soreness. Doctors soon confirmed his right shoulder joint—previously repaired with season-ending surgery—had suffered another aggravation.
Experts ruled out a second surgery, but mandated immediate rest. Richardson was immediately shut down for this week’s practices and next week’s mandatory minicamp. Training camp, set for July 22, suddenly looks uncertain.
Coach Steichen stated that when Richardson returns, the Colts will “ease him back into throwing,” but declined to give any timetable.
Will Daniel Jones Seize the Colts’ QB Job?
As Richardson heels, Daniel Jones is poised to capitalize. Freshly signed on a $14 million, one-year deal, Jones now takes first-team reps, thrust into a genuine competition for the starting role.
Jones, whose Giants tenure fizzled, now faces his NFL crossroads in Indianapolis. If he impresses throughout camp, the Colts could pivot, at least temporarily, from their embattled young star.
The Colts’ QB drama doesn’t end there: with Richardson out, sixth-round rookie Riley Leonard moves up as the No. 2 quarterback. Steichen confirmed there are no immediate roster moves planned—raising already high stakes for Jones and the depth chart.
Why Did the Colts Seek QB Competition in 2025?
Richardson’s on-field production, accompanied by recurring injuries, motivated GM Chris Ballard and coach Shane Steichen to inject more competition at quarterback. Richardson missed 12 games due to his shoulder last year, then sat out additional games thanks to a nagging hip issue and late-season back spasms.
With Ballard openly stating the team “can’t beat our head against the wall” with Richardson’s injury risks, adding Jones wasn’t just insurance—it was necessity.
What’s next for this once-promising young QB? Indianapolis is waiting, nerves frayed, as training camp looms.
Related Links:
– For the latest NFL news and updates, visit ESPN
– Deeper NFL coverage is available at NFL.com
– Official Indianapolis Colts information at Colts.com
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Q&A: What’s Next for the Colts’ Quarterback Room?
Q: Will Richardson be ready for training camp?
The team remains noncommittal. The timeline depends on his recovery. He will be “eased in” when cleared to throw.
Q: Could Daniel Jones start Week 1?
Absolutely. Jones will take a heavy share of reps as Richardson sits. The door is wide open.
Q: Is the team signing another QB?
Not yet. Rookie Riley Leonard will hold the backup spot for now.
Q: How serious is this for Richardson’s future?
With 17 missed games in two seasons—and a $14 million challenger hungry for redemption—Richardson faces increasing pressure to prove he’s the true long-term answer.
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How Can the Colts Get Back on Track?
1. Monitor Richardson’s recovery daily and don’t rush his return.
2. Max out Jones’ first-team reps so he’s fully prepared for a possible Week 1 start.
3. Develop Riley Leonard as a reliable option should further injuries hit.
4. Keep roster options open in case of setbacks.
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Colts Nation: Stay locked in as Indy’s quarterback future hangs in the balance. Bookmark this page for breaking updates and be ready for a dramatic summer!
- ✔ Track Richardson’s health status during July camp
- ✔ Watch for Daniel Jones’ preseason performance
- ✔ Check Colts.com for official injury reports
- ✔ Follow key NFL stories at NFL.com
