Colts' Anthony Richardson Ready to 'Make a Few Plays' in Return After Shoulder Injury

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is ready to "make a few plays" on Sunday in his team's preseason opener against the Denver Broncos, marking his return to the field since suffering a season-ending Grade 3 AC joint sprain in his right shoulder on Oct. 8 versus the Tennessee Titans.

"I get to run out in front of the supporters and the fans again," he said, per ESPN's Stephen Holder. "They can see me live, in effect, once again. So, it's a blessing. I'm thankful that Coach Shane let me play in this game. I get to go out there and make a few plays."

Colts head coach Shane Steichen told reporters that the starters will play "a series or two" against Denver, which will visit Indianapolis at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.

Richardson showcased great potential in limited action as a rookie after the Colts selected him with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. He rushed for 136 yards and four touchdowns in addition to completing 50-of-84 passes for three touchdowns (one interception) and 577 yards.

It wouldn't be a surprise to see Richardson become one of the game's most explosive offensive talents. The biggest question is whether he can stay healthy, but he's been a full go at training camp as he further adjusts to head coach Shane Steichen's system.

"It's definitely easier to manage our offense now," Richardson said at training camp, per Michael Marot of The Associated Press. "I'm a lot more comfortable, a lot more comfortable with the call Shane is calling in. It has been good so far -- making plays with the offense, diving deeper into the offense and learning a lot more, and then just trying to take advantage of the defense."

The Colts went 9-8 last year despite losing Richardson for nearly all of the season. With a healthy and comfortable Richardson leading the way, keep an eye on the Indianapolis Colts, who could end up being one of the AFC's top teams.