Report: Colts 'Optimistic' Anthony Richardson Will Play vs. Giants Despite Injuries

The Indianapolis Colts expect quarterback Anthony Richardson to be available for Week 17.

Stephen Holder of ESPN reported that the Colts are "optimistic" about Richardson's chances at playing on Sunday against the New York Giants after he was a non-participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday due to back and foot injuries.

"A team source told ESPN the Colts were optimistic about Richardson playing on Sunday, adding that he has made consistent progress and is responding to treatment," Holder wrote. "But the source said Richardson's performance in Friday's practice would be critical."

Richardson's designation on Wednesday was a projection as the team did not practice due to the Christmas holiday. However, the inactivity continued to Thursday and backup Joe Flacco took first-team snaps in practice, per Holder.

Richardson was a full participant in Indianapolis' Week 16 victory over the Tennessee Titans, where he threw for 131 yards with one touchdown and one interception while rushing for 70 yards and a touchdown. He has thrown for 1,814 yards with eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2024 while adding 499 yards and six touchdowns on the ground.

Indianapolis is 7-8 and pushing for the final AFC Wild Card spot. The Colts would need some help to get their but need to win the final two games of the season in order to at least hold up their end of the deal.

Flacco has thrown for 1,167 yards with nine touchdowns and five interceptions in four starts in 2024 and would be able to handle the job if needed.