Quarterback Anthony Richardson left Thursday’s pre-season game against the Ravens with a finger injury, capping a fiery week between the two teams.
The play began when Baltimore linebacker David Ojabo broke through and sacked the Colts starter midway through the first quarter. At first it looked like a routine takedown.
Moments later, Richardson walked to the sideline holding his right hand, with his pinkie bent sharply away from the rest of his fingers.
The damage came on his throwing hand, ending his night on the spot. The Colts quickly sent in a replacement before the quarter was over.
The team has not confirmed how long Richardson might miss, but they hope to have him ready for the regular-season opener against the Miami Dolphins in a month.
Missing games would mark another setback in a career where injuries have already played a major role. Richardson has played just 15 games in two years, missing more than half of the Colts’ regular-season fixtures.
If he cannot start Week 1, former Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will step in.
The injury was not the only flashpoint between these sides. Just days earlier, a joint practice erupted into a brawl during a punt drill.
Ravens backup Keyon Martin shoved Colts running back Tyler Goodson after the whistle. Goodson shoved back, and Baltimore cornerback Nate Wiggins charged in, landing several punches.
Players from both sidelines stormed the field before coaches and officials restored order. Wiggins and Goodson were both sent off. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh described it as “a learning experience,” while Colts boss Shane Steichen reminded players that composure and safety must come first.
Colts safety Camryn Bynum admitted he saw it coming. “You can’t get out of a joint practice without a fight,” he said. “That’s just special teams. That’s the dog mindset.”
The Colts and Ravens now prepare to meet again in Baltimore for their final preseason clash. For Indianapolis, the bigger question is whether Richardson’s hand will heal in time for the games that matter.
The Colts cannot afford to lose him early in a season where expectations are already high.
READ NEXT: NATE WIGGINS EJECTED AFTER THROWING PUNCHES IN RAVENS-COLTS JOINT PRACTICE FIGHT
