Anthony Richardson’s Injury Impact on the Colts
As the Indianapolis Colts prepare for their Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the status of quarterback Anthony Richardson remains uncertain due to a hip injury. Richardson’s questionable status has significant implications for the Colts’ offense, particularly in the fantasy football realm. With Jonathan Taylor already ruled out due to an ankle injury, the Colts are facing a challenging situation that could lead to some unexpected fantasy options emerging.
Joe Flacco: A Viable Replacement
In the event that Richardson is unable to play, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco will likely take the reins. Flacco stepped in for Richardson during the Colts’ Week 4 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he showcased his experience by completing 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions, earning 19 fantasy points. Given the Jaguars’ struggles against opposing quarterbacks—ranking second in most fantasy points allowed—Flacco could be a solid streaming option for fantasy managers in need of a quarterback.
While Flacco may not replicate the explosive performances of quarterbacks like Josh Allen or C.J. Stroud, who both scored over 27 fantasy points against Jacksonville, he has the potential to deliver around 20 fantasy points. This makes him a borderline starter in most leagues, especially if Richardson is sidelined.
Boost for Colts Receivers
Flacco’s presence under center also enhances the fantasy outlook for wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs. Pittman, who has emerged as the Colts’ top receiving option, becomes a reliable No. 2 fantasy receiver in all leagues. In Week 4, he recorded six catches for 113 yards on nine targets, demonstrating his ability to produce even with a backup quarterback.
Meanwhile, Downs has also been making waves, particularly with his performance against the Steelers, where he caught eight passes for 82 yards and a touchdown. With the Jaguars allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to receivers, both Pittman and Downs are in prime positions to capitalize on this favorable matchup. Downs, in particular, should be considered a high-end No. 3 option and a potential sleeper for fantasy lineups.
Running Game: Trey Sermon Steps Up
With Jonathan Taylor out, the Colts will turn to Trey Sermon as their primary running back. Sermon has shown flashes of potential this season, scoring a touchdown in Week 3 against the Chicago Bears. However, he will likely share touches with Tyler Goodson, who has yet to make a significant impact this season.
Sermon should be viewed as a low-end No. 2 running back or flex option in Week 5, given the favorable matchup against a Jaguars defense that ranks seventh in most fantasy points allowed to running backs. While Goodson has only one catch and no carries to his name this season, he may still see some involvement, making him more of a desperation flex play.
Jaguars’ Defensive Struggles
The Jaguars’ defense has been generous to opposing offenses, particularly in the passing game. With six receivers already scoring at least 12.3 PPR points against Jacksonville this season, the Colts’ receiving corps has a prime opportunity to shine. Flacco’s ability to distribute the ball effectively could lead to a productive day for both Pittman and Downs, especially if the Jaguars continue to struggle against the pass.
On the ground, Sermon will need to step up in Taylor’s absence. The Jaguars have allowed four running backs to score at least 13.6 PPR points this season, indicating that there is potential for Sermon to find success against this defense.
Final Thoughts
While the Colts face challenges with both Richardson and Taylor potentially sidelined, there are still opportunities for fantasy managers to capitalize on the situation. Joe Flacco’s experience and the favorable matchup against the Jaguars could lead to productive outings for the Colts’ receivers, while Trey Sermon has the chance to emerge as a viable flex option. As the Colts navigate this difficult period, fantasy managers should keep a close eye on the developments leading up to Week 5.