Indianapolis, December 16, 2025
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has been cleared to return from injury after sustaining a fractured orbital bone. However, veteran Philip Rivers will remain the starting quarterback for their crucial Week 16 game against the San Francisco 49ers. The Colts aim to improve their playoff prospects as they hold an 8-6 record, trailing in the AFC South. Richardson’s return is anticipated to boost the team’s offense, although there is no indication he will play before the season concludes.
Indianapolis, IN – Anthony Richardson Cleared to Return from Injury; Philip Rivers to Start Week 16
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has been medically cleared to resume physical activities following a fractured orbital bone sustained in October. Despite this clearance, veteran quarterback Philip Rivers will continue as the starter for the upcoming Week 16 game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Anthony Richardson’s Return Status
Richardson, who was placed on injured reserve after the injury, has been cleared to begin physical activities. However, the Colts have not yet activated his 21-day window to return from injured reserve, and there is no indication that he will return for any of the team’s final three games. The team is proceeding cautiously, focusing on his rehabilitation and ensuring he is fully prepared before rejoining the team.
Philip Rivers’ Continued Role
Rivers, 44, made his return to the NFL in Week 15 after a four-year hiatus, leading the Colts in an 18-16 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the loss, head coach Shane Steichen praised Rivers’ performance, highlighting his leadership and game management. Steichen emphasized that Rivers was brought back to play and will remain the starting quarterback for the Week 16 matchup against the 49ers.
Team’s Playoff Outlook
The Colts currently hold an 8-6 record, trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) and the Houston Texans (9-5) in the AFC South division. With three games remaining in the regular season, the team is focused on securing victories to improve their playoff prospects. The upcoming game against the 49ers is crucial for the Colts’ postseason aspirations.
Background on Anthony Richardson’s Injury
Richardson’s injury occurred during pregame warmups ahead of the Week 6 game against the Arizona Cardinals, when a workout band snapped, resulting in a fractured orbital bone. This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Prior to the injury, Richardson had shown promise as the Colts’ starting quarterback, and his return is anticipated to bolster the team’s offensive capabilities.
Upcoming Schedule
The Colts are set to host the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football on December 22, 2025. The game is expected to be a pivotal matchup in the Colts’ quest for a playoff spot.
Recent Game Results
Indianapolis Colts (IND) vs. Seattle Seahawks (SEA)
- Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025
- Final Score: Colts 16 – Seahawks 18
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When did Anthony Richardson sustain his injury?
Anthony Richardson sustained a fractured orbital bone during pregame warmups ahead of the Week 6 game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 12, 2025.
2. What is the current status of Anthony Richardson’s return?
Richardson has been medically cleared to resume physical activities; however, the Colts have not activated his 21-day window to return from injured reserve, and there is no indication he will return for any of the final three games of the season.
3. Who is starting as quarterback for the Colts in Week 16?
Veteran quarterback Philip Rivers will continue as the starting quarterback for the Colts in the Week 16 game against the San Francisco 49ers.
4. What is the Colts’ current record and playoff outlook?
The Colts hold an 8-6 record, trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) and the Houston Texans (9-5) in the AFC South division. With three games remaining, the team is focused on securing victories to improve their playoff prospects.
5. When is the Colts’ next game?
The Colts are scheduled to host the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football on December 22, 2025.
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Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Anthony Richardson’s Injury | Fractured orbital bone during pregame warmups on October 12, 2025. |
| Return Status | Medically cleared to resume physical activities; no activation of 21-day return window yet. |
| Philip Rivers’ Role | Starting quarterback for Week 16 against the San Francisco 49ers. |
| Colts’ Record | 8-6, trailing Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4) and Houston Texans (9-5) in AFC South. |
| Next Game | Hosting San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football on December 22, 2025. |
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