Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson continues to work his way back from shoulder surgery that claimed the majority of his rookie season, and the updates seem all positive.
After missing the typical press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine due to an illness, head coach Shane Steichen met with the media Tuesday in order to make up for the absence.
Without going into great detail, as expected, Steichen offered some positive news on Richardson’s rehab program.
“He’s been doing a little bit of both. He’s been here (Indy), he’s been in Florida doing his rehab. But he’s making great progress. You guys have seen obviously through social media, he’s throwing,” Steichen said. “I’m not going to put a timetable on his return, but he’s in great spirits, feeling good. Obviously, going through stuff but he’s making really, really good progress.”
Whether Richardson will be ready for the start of the spring workouts in April remains to be seen. Steichen offered some hope that could be the case during the 2023 regular season, but a lot of time has passed since then.
The No. 4 overall pick from last year’s draft showed immense promise both as a passer and a runner despite the small sample size. He’s far from a finished product, but the fact that he didn’t look overwhelmed in the slightest is extremely encouraging.
The likelihood of having a strong supporting cast around him increased this week as well. The Colts used the franchise tag on top wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. with the expectation of signing a long-term deal.
“When you have a reliable player like Pitt (Michael Pittman Jr.) that is going to show up every Sunday and make plays like he does, it definitely helps a young quarterback,” said SteichenTo keep getting that chemistry with those two guys, building, will be huge for Anthony’s (Richardson) growth.”
The Colts won’t begin spring workouts until the middle of April, and the on-field work doesn’t come until after the 2024 NFL draft.
But it all seems positive for Richardson as he continues his rehab work ahead of a crucial second season.
