Colts QB Anthony Richardson ruled out for concussion after hard fall on touchdown run

After a hot start, Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson was pulled from the game and placed into concussion protocol.

Sep 17, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) runs the
Sep 17, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) runs the | Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony Richardson and the Indianapolis Colts got off to a hot start in their Week 2 matchup against the Houston Texans. On the opening drive, Richardson led Indy on a 10-play, 75-yard drive that he capped off with an 18-yard touchdown run. A series later, Richardson ran into the end zone again, with a 15-yard touchdown run, putting the Colts up 14-0.

Unfortunately, the second touchdown is seemingly the reason that Richardson was taken to the locker room to be evaluated for a concussion. As Richardson cross the goal line, he was pushed by a Texans defender and rolled backwards, hitting the back of his head on the ground. However, Richardson rolled right through, stood up, and started to celebrate.

He even came back on the field for the next two drives. That’s why it was surprising when he left with the medical staff to go into the locker room. The Colts didn’t say that was the specific play that led to Richardson being evaluated, but the broadcast highlighted it as the one play where Richardson took contact to the head.

Anthony Richardson in concussion protocol

Veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew came into the game for Richardson and immediately led the Colts on another touchdown drive. With Richardson now in concussion protocol, Indianapolis is in great hands with the veteran Minshew, who has familiarity playing for Shane Steichen. Minshew was with Steichen during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles the last two seasons, and that’s why he was viewed as the perfect veteran quarterback for a rookie Anthony Richardson.

However, no one wants to see Richardson off the field, especially with how well he’s been playing to start his career. Richardson’s advancement through the protocol will definitely be something that everyone in Indianapolis is watching moving forward.

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