Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson Sustains Hip Injury Against Pittsburgh Steelers

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson was ruled out for the remainder of Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a hip injury sustained in the first quarter. The incident occurred during a match in Indianapolis, where the Colts held a promising lead, ahead of the undefeated Steelers, with a score of 17-3 at halftime.

According to Andrew Greif, a freelance sports journalist, Richardson initiated the game strongly, completing three out of his first four passes for 71 yards and adding 24 additional rushing yards. However, the second-year NFL starter experienced a setback after a 14-yard scramble resulted in a hit near his right hip, approximately five minutes into the game. Despite making a brief return to the field, Richardson was unable to maintain his performance and was substituted by backup quarterback Joe Flacco.

Joe Flacco, a veteran quarterback with previous stints at the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns, was signed as Richardson’s backup during the off-season. Flacco, who completed both of his attempted throws for 14 yards, including a 4-yard touchdown pass to receiver Josh Downs, stepped into the game following Richardson’s injury.

Richardson’s injury history has been a significant concern, having already faced challenges during his brief NFL career. His tenure in the league began with a concussion during his second career game, followed by a shoulder injury in October 2023, which necessitated surgery. Despite being listed as questionable to return initially, Richardson was eventually sidelined for the remainder of the contest.

The initial injury to Richardson was caused by a collision with Pittsburgh’s safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and a subsequent attempt to slide drew another hard hit, which led to further examinations by the Colts’ medical staff. Although Richardson returned to the sideline with his helmet on, he didn’t re-enter the game and remained an observer for most of the first half.

This latest development prompts concern over Richardson’s durability and the Indianapolis Colts’ ability to protect their starting quarterback from such injuries. Potential steps to safeguard Richardson will likely become a topic for discussion in the team’s upcoming game analysis and strategy meetings.