Anthony Richardson began the 2025 season as the backup quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, with Daniel Jones claiming the starting role during training camp.
In a surprising turn, Richardson was reportedly injured during warm-ups before Sunday’s match against the Arizona Cardinals and subsequently demoted to the third string.
His eye injury occurred while he was preparing for the game, as mentioned by NFL Network. As a result, Colts rookie Riley Leonard is stepping in as Jones’ backup.
This season has already been challenging for Richardson, who has only played in the Colts’ significant victories against the Tennessee Titans and the Las Vegas Raiders, managing just one completion for 9 yards.
The Colts had selected Richardson with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft, but he struggled with injuries that year, appearing in only a few games. His 2023 stats show a record of 2-2, with 577 passing yards and three touchdowns over four starts.
During the 2024 season, Richardson enjoyed more success statistically, accumulating 1,814 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions across 11 starts, finishing with a 6-5 record.
As the Colts prepared to face the Cardinals, they stood at a 4-1 record with Jones as their starter, who has tallied 1,290 yards, six touchdowns, and only two interceptions this year.
Meanwhile, Arizona will also be without their star player Kyler Murray for the game, leading to expectations that former Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett will take the reins.
