Colts newcomer Riley Leonard's performance during his preseason debut as quarterback, as the quarterback competition intensifies.
Anthony Richardson's Quick Recovery and Riley Leonard's Debut for the Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Richardson, the fourth overall pick for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, is making a swift recovery from a dislocated pinkie finger sustained during the team's preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens.
Riley Leonard, a rookie sixth-round pick from Notre Dame, made his NFL debut in the same game. Richardson and Leonard are both vying for the starting quarterback position, with the Week 1 matchup against the Miami Dolphins (Sept. 7) still undecided.
In the preseason game, Richardson was ruled out after his injury, which occurred eight minutes into the first half following a hit from Ravens linebacker David Ojabo. He needed to have his pinkie finger repositioned, but X-rays taken at halftime showed no fractures.
Despite the setback, Richardson was already throwing light passes shortly after the injury and aimed to return to practice as soon as possible. According to updates from ESPN, he is expected to return to practice as soon as Saturday.
Coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Richardson is doing all right after his injury, but the extent of his recovery remains uncertain.
During the first half of the game, Daniel Jones, another contender for the starting quarterback role, delivered an up-and-down performance. He completed 10 out of 21 passes for 144 yards, but also had some erratic moments. Jones did not throw any interceptions or touchdowns.
Leonard, making his debut, completed 12 out of 24 passes for 92 yards, but also threw one interception.
The Colts are scheduled to play the Green Bay Packers in the preseason next Saturday. As Richardson's recovery progresses, the competition for the starting quarterback role will continue to heat up.
In the wake of Anthony Richardson's injury during the preseason game, he is expected to resume practicing with the Indianapolis Colts as early as Saturday, despite having dislocated his pinkie finger. Meanwhile, AFC rookie quarterback Riley Leonard, debuting in the same game, completed 12 passes for 92 yards but also threw an interception. With both players vying for the starting quarterback position, their performance in sports analysis remains crucial leading up to the Week 1 match against the Miami Dolphins.
