In a challenging turn of events for the Indianapolis Colts, quarterback Riley Leonard is facing an injury after stepping in for the injured Daniel Jones. Leonard, a sixth-round draft pick from Notre Dame, reported a knee issue to the medical staff on Monday morning, according to head coach Shane Steichen. The specifics and severity of Leonard’s injury have not been disclosed, but Steichen expressed hope that Leonard could still participate in the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks. Leonard struggled before the injury, entering the game during the final play of the first quarter and completing 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards and one interception.
Leonard has been the primary backup since Anthony Richardson Sr. went on injured reserve in October due to a facial fracture sustained in an unusual warm-up accident involving stretching bands. Although the Colts have not ruled out Richardson’s potential return, his status remains uncertain, putting additional pressure on Leonard and the team’s quarterback situation.
Given Leonard’s uncertainty, the Colts are considering making quarterback transactions as necessary. Notably, they currently have only one healthy quarterback on the active roster, prompting speculation about promoting journeyman Brett Rypien from the practice squad.
In another setback for the Colts, Daniel Jones has torn his right Achilles, an injury that will require surgery later this week. Steichen described Jones as one of the toughest players he has encountered and noted that the injury complicates the team’s plans, as Jones is set to enter free agency in March when his one-year contract expires.
In addition, cornerback Charvarius Ward has entered concussion protocol after experiencing symptoms. This situation raises concerns, as it would mark Ward’s third concussion this season. The severity of his prior concussion, resulting from a collision with tight end Drew Ogletree in October, has left him questioning his future in the sport due to lingering symptoms. The Colts are already dealing with the absence of two-time All-Pro Sauce Gardner, sidelined for multiple weeks with a calf injury, compounding their challenges in the secondary.
