Colts' Anthony Richardson Said He Had to Crawl Around His Home Because of Back Injury

The back trouble that kept Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson out in Week 17 was causing serious issues with his mobility.

Richardson told reporters he has dealt with back issues on and off for a long time, "but it's never been this severe." He said he couldn't stand up and was reduced to "crawling around" his house because even walking was too painful.

The second-year signal-caller had to watch from the sideline as the Colts lost 45-33 to the New York Giants last Sunday. Joe Flacco went 26-of-38 for 330 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Richardson said Wednesday an MRI revealed a disc issue in his back, which at least pinpoints why his recent flare-up was so bad. He's hopeful of suiting up for the season finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

At 7-9, the Colts have already been eliminated from playoff contention. Ending the year with a victory would at least be something to build on in 2025.

Richardson in particular might be keen to leave a strong lasting image amid another inconsistent campaign under center. In 11 appearances, he has thrown for 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing just 47.7 percent of his passes.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported the 2023 first-round pick "is viewed as the presumptive starter for next season," which is only so reassuring. If he were performing up to expectations, his status for next year would already be implied without any reassurances needed.

Richardson's comments about his nagging back trouble are also somewhat concerning because his durability has quickly become a question mark. He started in just four games as a rookie and has missed two weeks through injury in 2024.

Back problems that in Richardson's words "might be chronic" would present a long-term worry.