Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, sidelined due to an injury, did not participate in practice sessions prior to their Week 17 match-up against New York Giants. Head Coach Shane Steichen initially addressed Richardson’s health concerns but has recently provided clarification amid increased scrutiny.
Richardson played 62 offensive snaps against Tennessee Titans earlier in the month and reported back and foot injuries; his absence from practice all week led to numerous questions for Steichen who initially stated soreness as being his primary issue, emphasizing Richardson’s back injury over foot issues but later changed his stance.
At a press conference following their loss to the Giants, reporter James Boyd queried Steichen about Richardson’s back condition and was informed it had back spasms that prevented him from participating. Steichen admitted it contradicted what had previously been stated and admitted his communication error by admitting “He just wasn’t able to go today”. Steichen then admitted his error by not disclosing earlier information regarding its nature – instead admitting his should have provided details sooner regarding their injury’s nature and symptoms earlier.
Due to his misstep, and with playoff contention being eliminated from contention for good, this situation has caused much discussion on social media; some even calling for Steichen to be fired from his post. When confronted by questions regarding job security he responded by asserting: “I control what I can control”, acknowledging its precarity while remaining focused on managing what lies within his domain.