On Tuesday, the Indianapolis Colts reportedly made a decision that may not bode well for Anthony Richardson’s future with the franchise.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler shared the Colts’ plan to bench the second-year quarterback and start Joe Flacco in Week 9 against the Minnesota Vikings.
In a 23-20 Week 8 loss to the Houston Texans, Richardson completed 10-of-32 passes for 175 yards, one touchdown and one interception and posted a dreadful 30.3 QBR. During his postgame news conference, Richardson admitted he subbed himself out for one play in the third quarter because he was “tired.”
ESPN’s Stephen Holder added the Colts aren’t giving up on Richardson, but the move suggests they’ve lost confidence in him.
Flacco — a Super Bowl champion — probably gives the Colts (4-4) a better chance to make the playoffs. In four games, the former Baltimore Ravens starter has seven TD passes and one interception. Richardson, meanwhile, has four TD passes and seven picks in six games.
Some may disagree with the Colts’ choice, even if they win more games with Flacco.
Before he was benched, ESPN’s Ben Solak felt the Colts should stick with 22-year-old Richardson despite his struggles. Otherwise, they may shatter his confidence.
“He has had far worse games this season (like the loss to the Packers) and bounced right back with better games the following week,” wrote Solak. “If the Colts bail on him now, it would be one of the most perplexing and inexcusable abandonments of QB development that I can remember.”
Richardson has exceptional arm strength. He has completed a pass over 40 yards in three of six games. Perhaps the 2023 No. 4 overall pick just needs more time to develop.
However, Richardson’s accuracy issues may prevent him from becoming a consistent starter. In his first two seasons, he has completed 50.2 percent of his passes, well below the league average (65.3. percent).
The Colts may turn to Richardson again, but they’re not convinced he’ll overcome the growing pains and become the guy.
