Colts’ QB Anthony Richardson has flashed his immense talent and ability, but his continued extended availability is a cause for concern.
Indianapolis Colts 2nd-year starting quarterback Anthony Richardson told members of the local media on Wednesday that “severe back spasms”—and specifically a disc issue, were the reasons he was forced to sit out during last weekend’s road loss to the New York Giants.
Richardson indicated that he’s experienced back issues since the 8th grade, and that these ‘might be chronic’—although he had not suffered such severe spasms previously (via The Athletic’s James Boyd):
#Colts QB Anthony Richardson said he “couldn’t even stand up” last week due to severe back spasms.
He said he’s had back issues since eighth grade and got an MRI that revealed a “disc thing.”
He said his back issues “might be chronic,” but he doesn’t think he’ll need surgery. pic.twitter.com/Wf6zN6x4ux
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) January 1, 2025
Richardson has missed back-to-back practices so far this week and is trending towards unlikely being able to play again this Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the finale.
Obviously, this is another cause for concern for Colts fans, as one of the biggest strengths of a starting quarterback is his consistent availability, and Richardson can’t seem to stay on the field for an extended stretch of consecutive time in his early pro career.
Having been limited to just 4 starts last season because of a concussion and a season-ending shoulder injury, Richardson has also missed 2 games this season because of an oblique injury, and may now miss 2 more starts with these latest severe back spasms.
When you also factor in the earlier 2-game suspension because of a team cited ‘lack of attention to detail’ (and not due to injuries), and Richardson is missing critical starts that are essential to his passing development and growth, which he simply doesn’t have enough of.
As for me, I remain hopeful that Richardson can still be the next franchise quarterback for the Colts. That being said, right now it’s really been one thing after the other for the 2nd-year quarterback, who’s truly endured a ‘rollercoaster’ of a sophomore season.
With these recent continued events—which leave him unable to see the football field, the probability of Richardson reaching franchise quarterback status for Indy appears less likely, but still not impossible. At any rate, 2025 is shaping up to be a ‘make or break’ year for him.
