Anthony Richardson Cleared, But Don’t Expect a 2025 Comeback Just Yet
Anthony Richardson is medically cleared. That’s the headline.
But the bigger story in Indianapolis isn’t whether he can play - it’s whether he should. And right now, with the Colts making a late-season push and Philip Rivers back under center, the answer seems pretty clear: Richardson might be back on the sidelines, but don’t expect to see him on the field in 2025.
Let’s rewind for a second. Richardson suffered an orbital fracture - a serious injury that cast real doubt on whether we’d see him again this season.
But credit to him and the Colts’ medical staff: he’s recovered enough to be available. Still, availability doesn’t guarantee opportunity, especially not with the current quarterback situation in Indy.
The Rivers Factor
Enter Philip Rivers - yes, that Philip Rivers. The 44-year-old, five years removed from his last NFL snap, was coaxed out of retirement and off the family couch to suit up once again. And while that move raised plenty of eyebrows, Rivers didn’t look out of place.
He wasn’t perfect, but considering the circumstances - a tough road matchup against a strong defense, limited prep time, and the weight of expectation - Rivers held his own. He had the Colts in position to win with under a minute left. That’s not just serviceable; that’s impressive.
It’s also exactly why the Colts brought him in. They needed a steady hand, a veteran presence who could navigate high-pressure situations and keep the offense on track. Rivers delivered that, and pulling him now, just as he’s finding his rhythm, would be a disservice to both him and the team’s playoff hopes.
Why Richardson Should Wait
Richardson’s talent isn’t in question. But his availability and consistency?
That’s a different story. Even before the orbital fracture, his time on the field has been limited.
This season, he missed the majority of games due to an injury suffered before the whistle even blew - in pregame warmups. That’s the kind of bad luck that makes coaches and front offices nervous.
And when he has played, the results haven’t exactly silenced the critics. Inconsistent accuracy, especially on short and intermediate routes, and a string of overthrows have plagued his passing game. His completion percentage has hovered near the bottom of the league, and the flashes of brilliance have been too few and far between.
None of this is to say Richardson can’t still be the guy. The Colts drafted him high for a reason.
He’s got the physical tools, the arm strength, and the athleticism to be a franchise quarterback. But the reality is, we just haven’t seen enough to know what he is yet - and throwing him back into the fire now, with the season on the line and a veteran like Rivers already in place, doesn’t help anyone.
The Long View
If the Colts want to evaluate Richardson further - and they absolutely should - they’ll have the chance. The offseason is right around the corner, and the quarterback room is far from settled. Daniel Jones’ status is still uncertain, and there’s a very real possibility that Richardson gets a shot to reclaim the starting job in 2026.
That’s when the real evaluation begins. Give him a full offseason, a clean bill of health, and a chance to compete - not just to fill in.
But right now? With Rivers leading the charge and the Colts still in the playoff hunt?
This isn’t Richardson’s moment. And that’s okay.
His time will come - just not in 2025.