The Indianapolis Colts have surprised a lot of people with their performance thus far in the 2023 season. They are sitting at 3-2 after defeating the Tennessee Titans in Week 5, tied for first place in the AFC South with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The teams are on a collision course for a matchup in Week 6 with first place on the line. However, the Colts’ starting lineup offensively could be in for a forced major change. 

Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson was forced out of the game in the second quarter when he was tackled and his shoulder was driven into the ground. His right, throwing shoulder took most of the fall and was visibility in pain.

Richardson was relieved by Gardner Minshew, who looks to be in line for his second start of the season in Week 6. Injuries have already become a major concern for Richardson, as this was the third time in four games that he was forced out early. He missed Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens with a concussion.

However, the extent of the shoulder injury is not yet known. Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen was unable to provide much of an update after the game, as he was unsure of how serious the injury was.

There is a belief that Richardson suffered a Grade 3 AC Joint sprain, but the Colts are still in the information-gathering stage. An MRI is expected to be done on Monday as he seeks a second opinion.

Every injury is different, but New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr suffered an AC Joint sprain earlier this season and didn’t miss any time. But, it would not be surprising if the Colts exhibited extreme caution, especially since Minshew has proven to be a more than capable backup option.