The Indianapolis Colts recently made the decision to bench quarterback Anthony Richardson and replace him with Joe Flacco, the 39-year-old who is in his 17th season in the NFL.
Flacco has played relatively well this year, and while the Colts have a 4-5 record, they may not be out of the running for a wild-card playoff spot.
Head coach Shane Steichen said Flacco is simply making plays throwing the football, something that Richardson has struggled with, per James Boyd.
I asked #Colts HC Shane Steichen what tangible skills he looks at with QB Joe Flacco that makes him believe in Flacco:
“ … He’s throwing the football. He’s done a hell of a job with that. Getting the ball out of his hands, finding completions. Just a veteran leader …” pic.twitter.com/5tisqngSIS
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) November 6, 2024
In five games and three starts in 2024, Flacco has thrown for 895 yards, seven touchdowns and two interceptions, while Richardson has 958 passing yards, four touchdown passes, seven interceptions and a 44.4 percent pass completion rate this season.
Steichen’s change under center hasn’t necessarily translated into more wins yet, but with some winnable games coming up later this season, it could eventually have its intended effect.
Flacco did a wonderful job last year after the Cleveland Browns signed him late in the season to replace the injured Deshaun Watson, and he led them to a four-game winning streak in December and a playoff spot.
Indianapolis certainly has the skill players to make a run at a playoff spot of their own, including running back Jonathan Taylor, who is one of the league’s best at his position when he’s healthy.
In addition, they have a decent trio of wide receivers in Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce and Josh Downs, and they resisted the urge to move star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowler, prior to Tuesday’s trade deadline.
NEXT: Shane Steichen Sends A Clear Message About Joe Flacco After Sunday's Loss
