NFL legend blames Anthony Richardson for his finger injury: "His fault"

The Indianapolis Colts’ preseason debut against the Baltimore Ravens was supposed to offer fans a glimpse of promise for the 2025 campaign. Instead, it delivered a troubling setback. Starting quarterback Anthony Richardson left the field with a pinky finger injury, a blow that could keep him sidelined as the team inches toward the regular season. While injuries often spark debates about who’s at fault, one NFL great has made it clear—Richardson himself is to blame.

A costly misstep under center

The play in question unfolded during a high-pressure moment against Baltimore. Instead of executing a quick release or recognizing the incoming blitz, Richardson hesitated. That split-second delay proved disastrous, resulting in a sack that not only ended the play but also left him nursing an injured finger.

While many might point to a breakdown in blocking or miscommunication with the tight ends, this time, the blame isn’t being shared. The misread was Anthony Richardson’s alone, and according to former NFL star Shannon Sharpe, the quarterback has to own it.

Shannon Sharpe’s unfiltered critique

In a blunt assessment, Sharpe didn’t mince words about where the responsibility lay:

“I wanted it to be somebody other than Richardson's fault… If the tight end thinks the back is picking him up, you're only hot if there’s nobody there to block him.”

Shannon Sharpe’s point was simple—Richardson failed to identify the defensive setup, missed the adjustment, and put himself in harm’s way. It wasn’t a protection lapse. It wasn’t a missed block. It was a quarterback error.

Recurring injury concerns

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time Anthony Richardson has been sidelined. Since entering the league, his playing time has been interrupted by a series of injuries, raising serious concerns about his durability.

While his athleticism and arm strength are undeniable, Richardson’s numbers tell a more sobering story. His career completion rate hovers at just 50.6%, and his touchdown tally remains underwhelming. If he can’t stay healthy and refine his decision-making under pressure, the Colts may need to look elsewhere for their long-term QB1.

Quarterback competition heats up

Anthony Richardson’s setback could open the door for Daniel Jones, eager to prove he can lead the franchise, and rookie Riley Leonard, who’s hoping to show he can handle the NFL stage. With head coach Shane Steichen confirming a “week-to-week” evaluation and no fixed return date, the battle for the starting role just got more intense.

In a league where availability is as important as talent, this injury—and Shannon Sharpe’s harsh critique—may define Richardson’s standing heading into the regular season.