The Indianapolis Colts quarterback battle took an unwelcome turn Thursday night when Anthony Richardson exited the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens with a dislocated pinkie on his throwing hand. The injury happened in the first quarter during his second possession, when Ravens linebacker David Ojabo came free off the edge and sacked Richardson, who never appeared to see him.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in 2023, jogged to the sideline for evaluation after the hit. Television replays showed his right pinkie pointing at an awkward angle. After attempting a few warmup throws, he was quickly ruled out. “It popped out, popped back in,” head coach Shane Steichen said postgame, adding Richardson is “day to day.”
The game had been planned as a key evaluation point in the Colts QB competition, with Richardson set to play most of the first half before Daniel Jones took over. Instead, Jones entered early, finishing 10 of 21 for 144 yards in a 24-16 loss.
Missed Opportunity in the QB Race
GettyQB Anthony Richardson Sprains Pinkie in Preseason Opener
This preseason was meant to be Richardson’s chance to solidify his grip on the starting job after the Colts signed Jones to a one year, $14 million deal to compete. The plan was to give each quarterback extended time in the first two preseason games before naming a starter.
Now, that schedule may need to change. Every rep lost in August is a step backward in Richardson’s development, a significant concern given his history. He missed 13 games as a rookie in 2023 due to injuries and sat out four more last season. Combined with a career completion rate just over 50% with 13 interceptions and 11 touchdowns, the need for live reps is critical.
The Colts chose not to play several starting offensive linemen, including Quenton Nelson, Bernhard Raimann, and Braden Smith. That left Richardson behind a makeshift unit in his first snaps of 2025. A decision that may leave many upset after an injury on an unblocked sack.
Daniel Jones’ Chance to Capitalize
GettyDaniel Jones is ‘Next Man Up’ in the Colts Offense
Jones, the former Giants starter, was already set to lead the offense against the Green Bay Packers next week. Now, he might get more work, and a bigger opening to win the job. With 77 career starts, a 64.1% completion rate, and proven mobility, Jones offers experience and stability, even if his 24-44-1 record in New York reflects the challenges of sustaining success.
For a franchise still searching for stability after years of quarterback turnover, Richardson’s ability to stay healthy is the foundation of the Colts long term plan. His size, athleticism, and arm strength make him one of the NFL’s most intriguing young talents. But until he can string together healthy weeks, his ceiling remains theoretical.
Thursday night was supposed to be a step forward. Instead, it became another reminder that Richardson’s most important ability in 2025 may be availability. If he returns quickly and regains momentum, the Colts original plan can stay on track. If not, Daniel Jones could become the Week 1 starter. Either way, the next couple weeks will go a long way toward shaping the Colts season.
Colts QB Anthony Richardson Suffers Injury in Preseason Opener