Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson shed light on the severe back spasms that sidelined him for Week 17, revealing the pain was so intense he “could barely even walk” and was reduced to crawling around his house at one point last week. The concerning injury forced the first-round pick to miss all three practices and sit out Sunday’s critical game against the New York Giants, which the Colts lost to be eliminated from playoff contention.
“Last week was tough and I couldn’t even stand up on Tuesday, could barely even walk, [had to] crawl around the house,” the 21-year-old Richardson admitted to reporters on Wednesday. “But I’m here, I’m standing now. If I can do anything in my power to get on the field, I’m going to do it.”
While back issues are nothing new for the young quarterback, having dealt with them since 8th grade, Richardson said he’s never experienced spasms this severe before. The episode proved a frightening ordeal, rendering him largely immobile until the pain and tightness subsided.
It was definitely a little scary last week, not being able to move.
Anthony Richardson on his severe back spasms
Chronic Issue Requiring Management
Richardson revealed the root cause is a chronic disc issue that’s plagued him for nearly a decade now, something he and his medical team will need to monitor and manage closely moving forward. Surgery isn’t deemed necessary at this stage, but preventative measures are crucial.
- Proper mechanics & positioning to avoid triggering spasms
- Targeted physical therapy to strengthen core & back
- Pain management techniques for flare-ups
“It might be chronic, but there’s plenty of ways to prevent it going on in the future,” Richardson noted. “Now that I know what it is, I can find certain ways to stay out of a certain position, just make sure I’m healthy.”
Hopes to Play in Season Finale
The Colts wrap up a disappointing season hosting the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday. Despite being ruled out of playoff contention with last week’s loss, Richardson is determined to suit up if his health allows it.
“I’m looking forward to playing this week if I can,” he affirmed. The rookie’s status remains uncertain until he’s able to return to practice. Indianapolis held a walk-through on Wednesday and will have full sessions on Thursday and Friday.
Durability Concerns Unfounded
Given the physical demands of the quarterback position, there are natural questions about Richardson’s ability to stay on the field. But the young signal-caller expressed no qualms about others forming their own opinions on his toughness and durability.
Everybody’s got their own opinion. I’m not mad at it. I have missed games through the injuries, so there’s enough information for them to go out there and say stuff like that. But it is what it is.
Anthony Richardson on durability concerns
Richardson made clear he’s committed to fighting through adversity and being there for his team whenever possible. “It’s a tough league. You’ve got to be tough to go out there and play through injuries and fight through certain things and I try my best to do so when I can.”
The Colts and their fans are hoping this is just a minor bump in the road for their potential franchise quarterback as he navigates the physical and mental rigors of life in the NFL. All eyes will be on Richardson’s status in the coming days as Indianapolis looks to finish the season on a high note against a division rival.
