Richardson, 23, is still dealing with vision limitations and is not yet 100 percent, but is able to participate in parts of practice.
Richardson was placed on injured reserve in October after fracturing his orbital bone during pregame workouts. Richardson continues to recover from that injury.
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While Richardson spent the entire season on the bench after losing the starting job to Daniel Jones, Richardson’s injury became a much bigger issue after Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury.
As the Colts struggled to find a viable starter, the team made the bold decision to bring the 44-year-old Rivers out of retirement. Despite not playing in the NFL for five seasons, Rivers started for the Colts in Week 15, nearly beating the Seattle Seahawks. The team plans to start Rivers again in Week 16.
After that, the Colts could be forced to make a tough decision. Assuming Richardson is healthy enough to play, the team would have to decide which player gives them a better chance to win games down the stretch.
Despite being out of the NFL for five seasons, Rivers performed admirably in his Week 15 start. The veteran completed 18 of 27 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown in the 18-16 loss. He also threw an interception during the contest. The Colts were competitive with Rivers under center, but lacked offensive potential.
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Richardson offers plenty of upside, but is still a raw talent. The 23-year-old struggled in 11 games last season, throwing eight touchdowns against 12 interceptions. Much of Richardson’s value came through his legs, as he rushed for 499 yards and six touchdowns on the ground last year.
But Richardson’s lack of progression as a passer led the Colts to sign Jones in the offseason and allow both players to compete for the starting job. Richardson couldn’t contain Jones, who was in the midst of a great year before his season-ending injury.
The Colts’ decision could depend on how well Rivers plays in Week 16. If he shows improvement in his second game, the Colts could opt to go with the 44-year-old the rest of the way. But if Rivers regresses, or the offense fails to put up points, the Colts could try and turn the tables on Richardson with a playoff spot on the line.