INDIANAPOLIS – Friday’s practice did nothing to clear up the uncertainty regarding Anthony Richardson’s availability for the Indianapolis Colts’ Sunday road test against the New York Giants.
Richardson did not practice for a second straight day because of back and foot injuries, likely opening the door for veteran Joe Flacco to return to the starting lineup. Richardson will be listed questionable for the game.
“He was just sore all week, really sore,’’ Steichen said. “Probably a little more the back.’’
It’s unclear when Richardson might have sustained the type of injury in Sunday’s 38-30 win over the Tennessee Titans that could keep him out against the Giants.
He absorbed a strong hit by Titans linebacker Cedric Gray on a run at the goal line in the third quarter. It initially was ruled Richardson had scored a 4-yard run, but a booth review had him down short of the goal line. Jonathan Taylor scored a 1-yard TD on the next play.
“It was just coming out of the game,’’ Steichen said. “I don’t think it was a specific play.’’
Richardson rushed for a career-high 70 yards and one touchdown on nine carries. He also completed 7-of-11 passes for 131 yards with one touchdown, one interception and one sack.
Steichen insisted Richardson’s status for Sunday will be determined in the next few days. It’s rare for an individual to play without practicing.
“We’re going to see how the next 48 hours go,’’ Steichen said.
Injuries have plagued Richardson since the Colts selected him with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft.
He missed one game as a rookie with a concussion, then the final 12 games after undergoing shoulder surgery. This season, Richardson missed two games with an oblique injury.
If he doesn’t play against the Giants, Richardson will have missed 17 of a possible 32 regular-season games.
You can follow Mike Chappell on Twitter at @mchappell51.