The Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, that quarterback Anthony Richardson will not practice due to his concussion.
Richardson suffered the concussion in the Colts’ Week 2 win over the Houston Texans. He was hit on the helmet by a Texans defender while running the ball in the second quarter. Richardson left the game and did not return.
Richardson is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol. He must pass through five steps of the protocol in order to be cleared to play. The steps include rest, light aerobic exercise, strength training, non-contact practice, and full-contact practice.
Richardson’s status for the Colts’ Week 3 game against the Baltimore Ravens is uncertain. He will need to be cleared from the concussion protocol before he can play.
If Richardson is unable to play against the Ravens, backup quarterback Gardner Minshew will start. Minshew was a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He has started 20 games in his career, including 13 games for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.
Analysis
Richardson’s concussion is a blow to the Colts’ offense. He is a rookie quarterback with a lot of potential, but he is still learning the NFL game.
Anthony Richardson and Ryan Kelly are in the concussion protocol, per @Colts HC Shane Steichen. They will not participate in practice today.
— JJ Stankevitz (@JJStankevitz) September 20, 2023
Minshew is a capable backup quarterback, but he is not at the same level as Richardson. Minshew is a more traditional pocket passer, while Richardson is a more mobile quarterback who can also run the ball.
The Colts will need to adjust their offense if Richardson is unable to play against the Ravens. They may need to rely more on their running game and their defense.
It is too early to say how much of an impact Richardson’s concussion will have on the Colts’ season. However, it is clear that it is a setback for the team.
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