Anthony Richardson’s Return Window Opens, but Colts’ QB Future Still Cloudy
As the Colts open the 21-day practice window for Anthony Richardson, let’s be clear: he hasn’t been activated from injured reserve, and he’s not suiting up for Week 16. In fact, it’s increasingly unlikely we’ll see him take another snap this season. But that doesn’t mean this moment is meaningless.
Even limited reps in practice could give Richardson a head start heading into 2026. For a young quarterback still trying to find his rhythm in the NFL, every bit of work matters-especially in Shane Steichen’s system, which Richardson is still learning to master. Whether he’s throwing routes or just absorbing the playbook from the sidelines, this is about planting seeds for the future.
Now, let’s talk about the present. After a 7-1 start, the Colts are staring down the barrel of a potential 8-9 finish.
That’s a tough pill for any team to swallow, but it’s not likely to cost Steichen his job. His system has shown flashes, and with Richardson back in the mix next year, the franchise has reason to believe better days are ahead.
But what about the quarterback situation right now? That’s where things get complicated-and a little surreal.
Philip Rivers, yes that Philip Rivers, came out of a five-year retirement to help stabilize the Colts’ QB room after Daniel Jones went down. It was a bold move, and while Rivers brought leadership and experience, it’s hard to imagine him returning in 2026. At 44, with a second act as a high school coach already well underway, this was likely a one-time cameo.
So where does that leave Indy? There are three options: re-sign Daniel Jones, give Richardson a full go, or swing big on the trade or free-agent market for a younger quarterback. The front office has decisions to make-and none of them are easy.
But here’s where the story gets interesting.
Before Richardson even returned to practice this week, he revealed something that says a lot about who he is-and who Philip Rivers still is. According to Richardson, the two had been in contact as early as last season, long before Rivers officially returned to the Colts. The young quarterback sought out the veteran for advice, and Rivers, despite having no formal ties to the team at the time, picked up the phone.
That’s not just a testament to Richardson’s work ethic-it’s a window into the kind of leader Rivers remains. Fans already knew about his connection to Steichen.
The two go way back, and Rivers was even running Steichen’s offensive scheme at the high school level in Alabama. But mentoring a young quarterback from afar?
That’s next-level commitment.
And while no one can say for sure how much Rivers’ advice helped-especially in a season where Richardson struggled-it’s clear the bond between them mattered. Sometimes, the impact of a veteran voice shows up not in the stat sheet, but in the way a young player carries himself through adversity.
Looking ahead, Rivers almost certainly won’t be on the Colts’ payroll next season. But don’t be surprised if his voice is still in the quarterback room, even if it’s just over a phone call. Whether it’s Richardson, Jones, or someone new under center, there’s a good chance Rivers will still be offering wisdom from the sidelines of his own life.
And for Richardson, that connection could be invaluable. As he works his way back from injury and continues to grow into the franchise QB the Colts hope he can be, having a mentor like Rivers in his corner could make all the difference.
The Colts’ quarterback picture is still murky. But one thing’s clear: Richardson is putting in the work, on the field and off it. And if he keeps leaning on voices like Rivers', Indy might just find its way back to stability under center.