The Indianapolis Colts announced on Thursday that the team has initiated the 21-day practice window for quarterback Anthony Richardson, who’s been medically cleared for physical activities after fracturing his orbital bone and undergoing surgery, but remains on the team’s injured reserve for now.
However, the only caveat being that Richardson is still suffering from some limitations with his vision:
With the season being over in three weeks’ time, there was no reason for the Colts not to activate Richardson’s 21-day practice window, if he’s physically able, even if he’s not activated within the next few weeks. It allows him to at least practice with the team, which Richardson was seen practicing during Thursday’s practice.
Obviously, it’s starting to look like a longshot that Richardson returns to game days for the Colts this season.
Not only is he facing an uphill battle with his physical conditioning and now, the reported vision limitations, but all indications point to the Colts continuing to start unretired longtime NFL veteran quarterback Philip Rivers.
It’s possible we could see Richardson later in the year, but I’m not realistically counting on it.