Indianapolis Colts sophomore quarterback Anthony Richardson is healthy and participating in the offseason program after his rookie campaign was prematurely cut short. Despite suffering a handful of injuries in short succession throughout 2023, Richardson doesn't see a need to make adjustments to his play style. The second-year quarterback may want to rethink that approach.
"Changing my game and my play style? I don't feel like there's anything wrong with my play style," Richardson said. "The times I did get hurt… The one time, the one concussion, that was [on] me completely because I slowed down by the end zone -- you're never supposed to do that. Everything else, it just happened because we play a dangerous game, and there's nothing I can do about that. But necessarily changing my play? I don't think I'm gonna change it."
It feels like an oversight. Richardson suffered three separate injuries in just four appearances as a rookie. He momentarily exited Indianapolis' Week 1 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars with knee and ankle soreness. Richardson then suffered a concussion in a Week 2 victory over the Houston Texans that sidelined him for the following contest.
Richardson later suffered what proved to be a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 5 on a tackle by Tennessee Titans outside linebacker Harold Landry III he could have avoided. Richardson was eventually diagnosed with a Grade 3 AC joint sprain. He underwent surgery that concluded his 2023 campaign.
Anthony Richardson right shoulder injury. AC JOINT sprain most likely. Given right arm unlikely to return today. Could miss a couple weeks max. Clavicle fracture also possible. pic.twitter.com/NGoHO2Czp6
— Dr. Mark Adickes (@jocktodoc) October 8, 2023
Richardson's season ended with 577 passing yards and three touchdowns. The dual-threat quarterback also accounted for 136 rushing yards and four additional touchdowns. The dynamic Richardson must start better protecting himself in the open field.
Although he rarely played, Richardson spent the 2023 season learning first-year head coach Shane Steichen's scheme. The former Florida standout should feel an increased sense of comfort heading into 2024. Richardson will have a better grasp of the offense and life in the NFL.
The Colts will surround Richardson with all the talent at his disposal he needs to succeed this season. They return a stellar supporting cast that includes Jonathan Taylor, Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and Michael Pittman Jr. General manager Chris Ballard also added former Texas Longhorns receiver Adonai Mitchell to the mix via the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Ballard may be hoping all this talent influences Richardson to seek physical contact with less consistency.
Richardson's breathtaking athleticism, which included running a 4.43 at the NFL Combine, is undeniably part of what makes him special. The Colts drafted the Miami native at No. 4 overall because he's a rare specimen. Striking the right balance is key to fully realizing his potential. He could utilize his athletic abilities without being reckless. And make no mistake, Richardson was reckless at times as a rookie.
Richardson will be tasked with staying healthy and productive throughout 2024. Extending the pocket and creating chunk yardage for himself outside of structure should remain a massive part of his game. Protecting himself for longevity’s sake is a career-preserving skill. Richardson's latest comments indicate he hasn't fully grasped the concept yet.
