Anthony Richardson does not have a firm, announced return date right now, but the Colts have said they hope he can come back later this season, with a real chance his next meaningful playing time ends up being in 2026 instead.
Current injury status
- Richardson is on injured reserve after suffering a fractured orbital bone around his eye during pregame warmups in Week 6.
- His vision was affected by swelling, and although the blurriness has been improving, he has not been medically cleared for football activities yet.
Team’s public timeline
- Head coach Shane Steichen has said there is no specific timetable and that Richardson has not been cleared to return, only that the team is “hopeful” he could play again this season.
- Local and national reports emphasize that the Colts have not ruled out a late‑season return in a backup role, but also note it is entirely possible his full on‑field return is pushed to 2026 if clearance or team circumstances do not line up.
What this means for “when”
- Best case, he could be activated late this season if doctors clear his eye and the team decides to use him in a limited role.
- There is still a real chance he does not play again until next year, so for now the honest answer is: no confirmed date, only hope for a late‑season return and strong expectations he will be fully back by 2026.
