The top superstar was fully dressed and participating in individual drills for the second consecutive day with the Colts, following a hip and oblique injury sustained during the game against the Steelers.
During the Thursday session open to the media, Richardson’s activity was limited; he threw a few easy, touch passes and practiced behind Joe Flacco, who could potentially start for the Colts.
A detailed practice report is expected later on Thursday. Notably absent during the open period were running back Jonathan Taylor (ankle), center Ryan Kelly (neck), defensive end Kwity Paye (quad), and cornerback Kenny Moore II (hip). On the other hand, right tackle Braden Smith returned after dealing with a knee issue, and linebacker Zaire Franklin was back after being ill.
Both Richardson and coach Shane Steichen have suggested that Richardson might start even if he has limited practice time.
“I feel good,” Richardson commented on Wednesday. “I’m still a bit sore, but it’s an improvement since the game, which is encouraging.”
Richardson sustained his hip injury during a 14-yard scramble in the first quarter of the Colts’ 27-24 win against the Steelers. He briefly missed two plays before returning for a designed quarterback run but had to stop early as he couldn’t generate speed due to the injury.
“Yeah, it’s tough to see,” Colts coach Shane Steichen said. “We brought him back in, and it’s frustrating. It really is.”
Richardson left the game after sliding and did not return, although he remained on the sidelines in full gear for part of the first half.
In terms of injury history, Richardson has played in eight NFL games but has not completed four of them due to injuries. His only long-term injury was an AC joint sprain last season. He dismisses claims of being injury-prone.
“It’s football,” he said. “Anyone who faces hits from players running at 20-plus miles per hour weekly would likely feel sore and deal with injuries too. People will talk, but I’m not worried. I’m just focused on improving daily.”
As for his backup, Joe Flacco is next on the depth chart. Flacco may be a worthwhile fantasy football pickup; despite struggling for six years before last season with the Browns, he performed well in relief of Richardson against the Steelers, completing 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.
According to the NFL Network, Richardson suffered a hip pointer during the game against the Steelers, though the Colts have yet to confirm this diagnosis. A hip pointer is a specific bruise or pain in the hip area caused by impact, commonly seen in sports.
Richardson, who is 22 years old and will turn 23 on May 22, has had a challenging season statistically, completing 50.6% of his passes for 654 yards, three touchdowns, and an NFL-high six interceptions, resulting in a passer rating of 60.2. He has also rushed for 141 yards and one touchdown on 21 carries this season.
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