Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson will undergo season-ending surgery to repair the AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder, the team announced Wednesday.
This was the expected outcome following the reports that Richardson was leaning in this direction. The decision ultimately was up to him, but even owner Jim Irsay said this was the expected result.
Richardson suffered a Grade 3 AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder while being tackled on a designed run during the Week 5 win over the Tennessee Titans. He was placed on the injured reserve list the following week.
Here’s what Irsay said Wednesday following the official announcement:
After consultation with our medical staff, Anthony, and those close to him, it has been determined that he will undergo surgery to repair his injured shoulder, which will end his season. Anthony is a competitor, and we know how difficult and disappointing this is for him and our team. We collected several medical opinions and we felt this was the best course of action for his long-term health. We anticipate a full recovery and there is no doubt Anthony has a promising future. In the meantime, I love the fight of this team and I’m excited for the opportunity we have ahead of us. It starts this week with Cleveland.
After showing so much promise through the first five weeks of the season, Richardson’s rookie campaign ended before it even could begin. He dealt with a few injuries, including a concussion that knocked him out for 1.5 games, but the flashes and development already provided plenty of optimism for the future.
The Colts always had the future in mind when it came to Richardson so this decision isn’t a major surprise.
Regardless, the Colts will be rolling with Gardner Minshew as the starter for the remainder of the season with the expectation that Richardson will be ready to go in 2024.
