Why Colts shutting down rookie QB Anthony Richardson is right move

On Wednesday, the Indianapolis Colts announced they will have rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson undergo season-ending surgery on his right shoulder. It's the right decision.

Colts fans know how injuries can derail the career of a promising young QB. Former Indianapolis signal-caller Andrew Luck, who made four Pro Bowls in seven seasons, tore his labrum in 2015 and waited two years to have surgery. He retired in 2019.

Colts owner Jim Irsay and Richardson don't want history to repeat itself.
"For us going through what we went through with Andrew Luck, it's tough," he said Wednesday, per Yahoo Sports Jori Epstein. "He just felt that the way the shoulder felt, the pain he was having and everything, Anthony just felt that was the right way to go."
 
Richardson showed why he was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft in four games. The former Florida Gator completed 50-of-84 passes for 577 yards and recorded seven TDs (four rushing, three passing).

It seems likely that Richardson could become a solid starting QB that the franchise can build around, so it's smart for Indianapolis to protect his long-term health.
 
"Going through that process, talking to the doctor, getting as much information as we could, this is the best thing for him," Colts head coach Shane Steichen told the media Wednesday. "And this franchise moving forward, so we can get him healthy next season."

The Colts have a capable backup in fifth-year QB Gardner Minshew. This season, the 27-year-old has completed 90-of-138 passes for three TDs and an above-average 54.2 QBR.
 
The Colts won't regret this decision, especially if Richardson bounces back with a strong season in 2024.