Anthony Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has encountered significant challenges during his first three professional seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. Despite missing most of 2025 due to an orbital fracture suffered in an unusual pregame incident, Richardson is expected to return for the Colts’ offseason program starting in April. His recovery marks a crucial phase for both the quarterback and the team as they navigate his development and future role.
Updates on Richardson’s Health and Readiness
Colts General Manager Chris Ballard provided an update on Richardson’s condition during the scouting combine press conference, confirming that the quarterback has seen multiple specialists and continues to improve. Ballard emphasized,
“He’s getting better. He’s been cleared to play football.”
This progress follows Richardson’s limited playing time in the 2025 season, where he appeared briefly in two games and took just 14 offensive snaps due to his injury.
Ballard Acknowledges Richardson’s Character and Team Role
Ballard expressed admiration for Richardson’s resilience and positive attitude despite the setbacks. Reflecting on his journey, Ballard said,
“I’m proud of him. I’m proud of Anthony, man. I mean, here’s a guy that’s had to deal with a lot of injury stuff that happens. Unfortunate accident with his eye. He doesn’t win the job, Daniel wins the job. I think the one thing that I don’t know everybody appreciates about Anthony — I do and I know some of his teammates do — he’s a really good teammate. Positive, wants to do the right things. So, it’s trending in the right direction. Still got a ways to go, but he’s cleared to play. And the eye’s getting better. So, we’ll just work from there.”
Colts’ Plan for Richardson Moving Forward
Although the Colts are expected to decline Richardson’s fifth-year contract option this spring, Ballard remains optimistic about Richardson’s possibility to contribute to the team in the future. He acknowledged the uncertainty inherent in player development but affirmed his belief in Richardson’s potential by stating,
“I see a future, yeah. I’m not going to — kind of like with any player, you never know what’s going to happen. And things change, but, yeah. We like Anthony.”
Implications for the Colts and Richardson’s Career
Richardson’s recovery and gradual return to play are critical as the Colts reassess their quarterback plans beyond the 2025 season. His health, combined with his attitude and potential, could influence the team’s decision-making and depth chart moving forward. The coming offseason will be a vital period for Richardson to demonstrate his readiness and for the Colts to determine how he fits into their long-term strategy.
