The Indianapolis Colts’ playoff hopes ended in disarray Sunday with a 45-33 loss to the two-win New York Giants, but former Colts head coach Chuck Pagano’s sharp critique of the organization’s handling of quarterback Anthony Richardson and his status has stolen the spotlight.
Richardson was sidelined due to what head coach Shane Steichen initially described as “soreness.” After significant backlash from fans and media, Steichen later clarified that Richardson was dealing with back spasms. Pagano, now an analyst, publicly questioned the mixed messaging from the Colts, emphasizing the confusion and damage it caused.
“If it is soreness, at this point, there isn’t anybody that’s 100%,” Pagano said on WISH-TV. “Everybody is dealing with something. Everybody is playing through something right now… I’m confused, like everybody else. Is this soreness? Is this something that he can play through? Or does he have back spasms? There’s so many different reports coming out of that building right now it just leads to so much confusion.”
Pagano’s remarks underscore broader concerns about the Colts’ inconsistent communication and its impact on Richardson, whose reputation was already under scrutiny as a rookie quarterback. The lack of clarity, Pagano argued, not only creates unnecessary controversy but also fails to protect Richardson from public backlash, a sentiment echoed by fans and analysts.
The situation escalated on social media, where Richardson faced unwarranted criticism for not suiting up against the Giants. As Pagano pointed out, Richardson’s playing status was a medical decision, not his own, yet the organization’s missteps left him exposed to backlash.
“This isn’t doing [Richardson] any favors,” Pagano added, highlighting the need for the Colts to manage their messaging better to avoid damaging the trust between the team and its fanbase.
The loss to the Giants further exposed the Colts’ shortcomings, with backup quarterback Joe Flacco’s three turnovers and a porous defense allowing 45 points to a struggling opponent. However, the spotlight remains on the organization’s inability to control the narrative surrounding Richardson.
Heading into 2025, the Colts face mounting pressure to address issues both on and off the field. Pagano’s criticism serves as a stark reminder that effective communication and player protection are fundamental to any team’s success—and the Colts appear to have fallen short on both fronts this season.
