Richardson has not completed more than 50 percent of his passes in any game this season in which he has attempted more than five throws and has yet to reach the 220-yard passing mark. The 2023 first-rounder has shown some flashes, including some deep bombs and athletic plays with his legs, but they haven’t been nearly consistent enough.

The move also came after Richardson admitted he made the substitution on Sunday because he was “tired”. The honest answer raised questions about the QB’s commitment. Teammate Ryan Kelly even noted that it wasn’t “the standard” Richardson had to live up to. While the offense’s production issues are a bigger concern, the diversion may have played a role in the decision.

It shouldn’t be a surprise to turn to Flacco, who went 1-1 as a starter and contributed in relief to the win over Pittsburgh. The offense went better on schedule with the experienced quarterback. In the Week 5 loss at Jacksonville, Flacco’s 359 yards and three touchdowns were by far the most productive day for the offense in 2024. Last year, we saw that Stechien’s offense can move the ball if the QB stays on schedule and the right way reading does.

As he showed in 2023, the 39-year-old Flacco can manage an offense, isn’t afraid to rush the field and provides a calming presence.

A year ago, Flacco took over in Cleveland and led the Browns to a playoff berth by going 4-1 as a starter. The Colts, who are 4-4 and just a half-game away from a wild-card spot, are hoping turning to the veteran can be similarly rewarding.

When Indy drafted Richardson, they knew there would be growing pains given his lack of starting college experience. With the playoffs still within reach, the Colts are not prepared to endure these difficulties. Instead, they turn to Flacco.

It’s a quick turnaround from an organization that has loudly supported Richardson since selecting him in the top five a year ago. The question is how long he will be on the pine and what future he has in Indy if or when he returns to the starting lineup.