The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for a competitive quarterback battle this training camp as Anthony Richardson has been medically cleared to return, allowing him to challenge Daniel Jones for the starting position. Richardson’s recovery from a shoulder injury comes just in time ahead of the Colts’ camp kickoff on July 22 at Grand Park Sports Campus.
Medical Clearance Frees Anthony Richardson to Rejoin Colts QB Competition
NFL insider Ian Rapoport revealed that Anthony Richardson received a thorough medical evaluation from renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles, confirming he does not require surgery after a persistent right shoulder injury. This has cleared Richardson to participate fully in training activities without restrictions.
“I do expect both of these quarterbacks to be out there very early in training camp,” Rapoport said. “As far as Anthony Richardson, from what I understand, he had a right shoulder injury, somewhat similar injury to what he had before.”
—Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider
“Got it checked out, got a second opinion from Dr. Neal ElAttrache, one of the more respected voices in the medical community in the NFL. Just rest and recuperation, really just rest and rehab. No surgery. He is expected to be fine by training camp.”
—Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider
Richardson previously underwent right shoulder surgery during his rookie season in 2023, which limited him to just four starts before the injury ended his debut prematurely. The injury resurfaced during organized team activities in late May, leading the Colts to hold him out of further offseason workouts, including the recent minicamp, as a precaution.
Daniel Jones Takes Lead Role While Colts Await Richardson’s Full Return
In Richardson’s absence, veteran quarterback Daniel Jones has assumed first-team reps, with rookie Riley Leonard backing him up. Colts head coach Shane Steichen praised Jones’ leadership and quick grasp of the offense since joining the team on a one-year, $14 million contract after his release from the New York Giants.
“Very pleased with what we got right now,” Steichen said. “He’s been doing a helluva job. Really smart football player. Learned the offense very quickly, making really good decisions out there through OTAs. Great command in the huddle. Ultimate pro.”
—Shane Steichen, Colts Head Coach
Jones’ tenure in New York was marked by struggles including a high sack rate and inconsistent support from his offense, but the Colts’ management viewed him as a stabilizing presence while Richardson’s health was uncertain. Richardson’s availability has been a concern since his rookie year, when he missed extended time due to injury, including a concussion aside from his shoulder problems. Since entering the league, Richardson has only appeared in 17 of 34 possible games.
Colts’ Quarterback Hierarchy Will Soon Be Defined as Training Camp Approaches
With training camp set to begin at the end of July, the focus now is on when Richardson will fully resume throwing and compete directly against Jones for the starting job. The Colts’ coaching staff has yet to provide a clear timeline for Richardson reaching full throwing capacity, leaving fans and analysts eager to see how this quarterback race unfolds.
The renewed health of Richardson adds an element of intensity and uncertainty to the Colts’ quarterback situation, as both he and Jones possess distinct skill sets that could shape the team’s offensive strategy moving forward. This competition will be vital in determining the Colts’ on-field leadership heading into the season.