Colts Trying Out Former Falcons QB After Anthony Richardson Injury
The Indianapolis Colts are exploring their quarterback options after another injury setback for promising young passer Anthony Richardson. With Richardson missing mandatory minicamp this week due to a flare-up in his surgically repaired right shoulder, the team is taking a proactive approach to prepare for possible extended absence. One of their recent moves included trying out former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, suffered an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder during Week 5 of his rookie season. That injury required season-ending surgery, but the Colts had remained optimistic about his full recovery entering 2024. Unfortunately, head coach Shane Steichen confirmed this week that Richardson’s shoulder “flared up” again, sidelining him from all minicamp activities and raising new concerns about his long-term durability.
As a precautionary measure, Indianapolis hosted several players for workouts, including Ridder, who started 17 games for the Falcons over the past two seasons before being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this offseason. Ridder, a third-round pick in 2022, has NFL experience and familiarity with high-pressure situations. Across his career, he has thrown for over 4,000 yards with 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. While his tenure with Atlanta was uneven, the 24-year-old still offers potential as a serviceable backup or short-term starter.
There’s also a built-in connection between Ridder and current Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, who played with Ridder at the University of Cincinnati. That familiarity could help ease Ridder’s transition if the Colts opt to sign him.
The Colts’ current quarterback room includes veteran Daniel Jones, who signed a one-year deal this offseason after being released by the Giants. Jones has been taking first-team reps in Richardson’s absence and has drawn praise from coaches for his early performance in camp. Behind him are rookie Riley Leonard, a fourth-round pick out of Notre Dame, and undrafted free agent Jason Bean from Kansas.
The decision to try out Ridder suggests the Colts are not entirely confident in their depth, especially with Richardson’s status uncertain heading into training camp. While no signing has been announced yet, Ridder’s workout could lead to a training camp invite or even a roster spot, depending on how Richardson progresses medically.
With the Colts looking to compete in a wide-open AFC South, ensuring stability at quarterback is essential. Whether Richardson returns soon or not, the team is clearly preparing for every possibility. A move to bring in Ridder could be one piece of that insurance plan.
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