Just when you think you’ve had it all, someone comes out swinging. Anthony Richardson just dropped a BIG bombshell about his practice schedule—and this didn’t sit very well with one former Chiefs star. 

Mitchell Schwartz didn’t hold back, firing right at Richardson’s defense of his injuries. “Any time you pull the ‘if fans came and did this’ line, I think it doesn’t work. You’re one of 32; that’s who they’re comparing you to. You’re also arguably the best combination of size, speed, and strength the position has ever seen. Compare yourself to other QBs, not normal-sized people.” Schwartz’s words pack a punch, pointing to the league’s high standards and the need for the young QB to step up for real.

Last season’s been a rough ride for the Colts’ QB (no doubt!) Having started just eight games, the 22-year-old left four due to various injuries—knee, shoulder, hip, and a concussion. When pressed about the scrutiny, he responded with a dose of reality. Richardson made it clear that if the critics had to take hits from players flying at over 20 miles per hour every week, they’d definitely be feeling it, too. “I won’t practice… but I mean, it’s football. I’m pretty sure if (the people saying he’s injury prone) got out the house and came out here and got hit by somebody that’s running 20-plus miles per hour? People are going to talk; that’s what people do. I’m not necessarily worried about it; I’m just focused on getting better day by day.”

But is Anthony Richardson really injury-prone? That’s a tough question. Statistically speaking? Yes. If we take a look at the first-round QBs draughted between 2009 and 2021, it reveals somewhat of a mixed bag. 16 QBs didn’t miss a game in their first two seasons but averaged missing two games per season starting in Year 3. Overall, the average for the 37 QBs analyzed? About 2.2 games missed per season. 

Here’s a breakdown. Three QBs—Joe Burrow, Deshaun Watson, and Matthew Stafford—missed over six games in their first two seasons. Burrow’s still fighting injuries, averaging 3.5 missed games each year. Watson’s had his share of injury woes, but he averaged 2.4 games missed from Year 3 onward. Stafford, though, has missed 19 games in his first two years—and then went on to play eight consecutive seasons without missing a single game.

So, how does the Colts’ QB stack up? Currently, he’s missed 13 games in his first two seasons. That’s a concerning number (when compared to the likes of the Rams’ QB Stafford). It’s fair to ask if a player’s injury-prone, but we need to look at other factors as well. Richardson’s somewhat defensive response makes sense given the current circumstances.

As the Florida Gators’ champ works through these growing pains, it’s clear that he’s got a long road ahead. But the good news is: Richardson’s back from injury. So, let’s take a peek at how Indianapolis’ offense and defense are looking right now. 

Anthony Richardson returns: Colts’ offense and defense step up big time 

After the Steelers face-off, where the anxiety levels were through the roof, Richardson’s back in action as QB1. While he was away nursing his injuries, Indianapolis’ offense didn’t miss a beat. 

Michael Pittman Jr. was a beast—snagging six catches for 113 yards. Rookie Josh Downs finally broke the seal with his first TD, and TE Drew Ogletree joined the fun. With an O-Line that’s giving Richardson the kind of protection usually reserved for royalty, he’s sure to make a splash. Plus, Jonathan Taylor’s back, teaming up with Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson to keep defenses guessing.

The Colts’ D? Phenomenal! LB E.J. Speed’s been absolutely electric, piling up 13 tackles against Pittsburgh. Nick Cross’ had 47 tackles so far. Grover Stewart and Dayo Odeyingbo have been terrorizing opposing QBs too, combining for four sacks against Justin Fields, which is making the Colts’ defense a serious nightmare for anyone lining up across from them.

Veteran Joe Flacco completed 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards, tossing two TDs (Indianapolis had a 27-24 win). It’s clear, folks—this team’s ready to show they’ve got it all!