Colts' Richardson returning to practice
The Indianapolis Colts are opening the practice window for quarterback Anthony Richardson, head coach Shane Steichen said Thursday, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
This gives the Colts a 21-day window to activate Richardson from injured reserve. Richardson has been sidelined since October after undergoing surgery to repair a broken orbital bone socket.
Steichen added that Richardson is still dealing with some vision limitations, per Rapoport.
The Colts have been searching for answers under center since losing starter Daniel Jones to a torn Achilles in Week 14. The franchise lured 44-year-old passer Philip Rivers out of retirement to start last Sunday's loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Rivers, who had been retired for four-plus seasons, completed 18 of his 27 passes for 120 yards. He also threw a touchdown and an interception.
Rookie Riley Leonard served as Rivers' backup.
The fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft, Richardson has struggled since coming into the NFL. Plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, the former first-round pick has started just 15 games, throwing for 11 touchdowns to 13 interceptions while completing just a tick over half his passes (50.6%). He lost the starting job to Jones ahead of the 2025 season.
The Colts, who have lost four in a row and five of the last six, are 8-6 and on the outside of the playoff picture. They take on the 10-4 San Francisco 49ers on Monday night.