Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson won’t be returning for the 2023 season, but it seems his recovery from shoulder surgery is going smoothly.
In fact, Richardson told reporters this week that he feels his progress has gone faster than expected and that he hopes to be throwing again within the next month.
“I think I’m progressing way faster than everyone thought,” Richardson said via Mike Chappell of CBS4.
After suffering a Grade-3 AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder during the Week 5 win over the Tennessee Titans, Richardson had season-ending surgery to correct the injury.
The typical plan involved Richardson beginning a throwing program roughly 16 weeks after surgery, barring a setback. But the rookie is hoping to push that timeline to a closer date.
“They said 16 weeks after the surgery, but hopefully I’m trying to push to get (back) before that,’’ Richardson told reporters. “But we’ll see. Hopefully I can throw next month, but if not, whenever that time does come, I know I’m gonna rip it.’’
As the Colts compete for a wild-card spot, they’ve been able to get by with Gardner Minshew under center. The offense certainly misses the potential for explosive plays with Richardson leading the way, but head coach Shane Steichen has done an admirable job keeping the offense afloat.
Richardson has been with the team during his rehab over the last few weeks. He’s still heavily involved in the meetings and the classroom while Minshew leads the offense.
The future is extremely bright for Richardson, who completed 59.5% of his passes for 577 yards, three touchdowns and one interception while adding 136 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns in four starts.
The hope is that Richardson will be ready to go for OTAs in the spring, but that remains to be seen. At least this update provides optimism that a full work of spring ball may be ahead for the exciting 21-year-old.
