Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out against the Steelers after exiting Sunday's game in the first quarter with a hip injury.
Richardson slid awkwardly at the end of a 1-yard run at the Pittsburgh 5-yard line, forcing an accidental helmet-to-helmet hit from Minkah Fitzpatrick. The Colts QB got up under his own power and limped to the sideline before heading to the locker room.
The Colts deemed Richardson as questionable to return before ruling him out early in the second quarter.
The belief is Richardson suffered a hip pointer and the team decided to play it safe with his health by ruling him out while the Colts held a 17-0 lead, NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe reported Sunday, per a source.
The hip injury Richardson suffered might have been an aggravation from a play earlier in the drive. The 22-year-old left the game for two snaps after sustaining a big hit at the end of a 16-yard run. Richardson, whose fumble on the play was recovered by the Colts, motioned toward his back/hip area in pain upon exiting the first time.
The Colts were leading, 7-0, at the time of Richardson's exit. Joe Flacco found Josh Downs for a touchdown two plays after Indianapolis' starter went to the locker room.
Richardson led an eight-play, 70-yard touchdown drive to begin the game. The second-year starter completed 3 of 4 passes for 71 yards while adding 26 rushing yards.
