After Colts Overcome Bizarre Warmup Injuries To Beat Cardinals, Team Hopes For Speedy Recoveries

The Indianapolis Colts achieved a 5-1 start to their season on Sunday, but not before enduring one of the strangest pregame injuries in recent history.

Quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. and cornerback Charvarius Ward were both injured during warmups before the team’s 27-17 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. This forced quick adjustments just minutes before kick off.

Richardson is serving as the backup to starter Daniel Jones. Richardson suffered an orbital fracture when a resistance band snapped and hit him in the eye. The team’s medical staff immediately transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was evaluated and ruled out for the game. Head coach Shane Steichen said after the win that Richardson is expected to miss time.

Later, Ward was taken off the field after colliding with tight-end Drew Ogletree during a routine drill. The Colts’ defensive back was later diagnosed with a concussion—his second of the year. Ward previously missed the week two matchup against Denver for the same reason.

Despite the chaos, Jones delivered another strong performance, completing 22 of 30 passes for 212 yards with two touchdowns, an interception, and a rushing score. The Colts’ defense held steady without Ward, limiting the Cardinals to field goals on two key drives in the second half.

With the victory and Jacksonville’s loss to Seattle, Indianapolis moved into first place in the AFC South. Ward’s status for next week remains uncertain, while Richardson’s recovery timeline will depend on further evaluation.