In Week 17, the Indianapolis Colts were still fighting for a playoff spot. The team was 7-8 and had a winnable game against the 2-13 Giants. But New York came from behind to win 45-33, ending the Colts’ chances of making the playoffs this year. Starting QB Anthony Richardson was injured against New York.
Veteran Joe Flacco started in Week 17 and reports emerged today that he will start again in Week 18. Anthony Richardson is still dealing with a back injury and the Colts have nothing to play for. This will be his eighth game of the season and sixth start in Indianapolis in 2024. The Colts face the Jacksonville Jaguars at home in Week 18.
Joe Flacco will replace Anthony Richardson as the starter in Week 18.
that #Colts QB Anthony Richardson (back) has been ruled out for Sunday’s finale against the Jaguars. Joe Flacco will finish the season. https://t.co/leHmzrlIAl
— Ari Mayloff (@MySportsUpdate) January 3, 2025
With the fourth pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Colts selected Florida native Anthony Richardson. The young QB had limited starting experience in college but possessed the raw athleticism that made him a top prospect. In his first season with the Colts, Richardson appeared in and started four games. He suffered a shoulder injury late in the season that required surgery. Richardson is fully recovered and ready to begin the 2024 season. The 22-year-old QB was benched for Joe Flacco at one point this season.
Eventually, it became clear that Flacco was unable to surpass Richardson and become the starting QB again. In 2024, Richardson went 6-5 in 11 starts. He would finish the game with 1,814 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Richardson added 86 carries for 499 yards and six rushing touchdowns. Unfortunately, the young QB left a lot to be desired after the Colts used their top four picks to draft him. Even when healthy, Richardson leaves the team questioning whether they need another QB long-term. Joe Flacco is expected to start in Week 18, replacing Anthony Richardson. He suffered a back injury and the Colts were already eliminated from the postseason.
