Is Anthony Richardson playing tomorrow? Latest on Colts QB for Fantasy Football Week 17

Anthony Richardson's status for Week 17 has been a burning question for both Indianapolis Colts fans and fantasy football managers. The quarterback's availability against the New York Giants hung in the balance this week due to back and foot injuries.

The answer is definitive - Richardson will not play in Sunday's game against the Giants. The Colts ruled out their starting quarterback after he missed all three practice sessions this week, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Head coach Shane Steichen said that Richardson's back injury is the primary concern rather than his foot issue. This marks the fourth game Anthony Richardson will miss this season due to injury. This adds to a growing list that includes previous absences for an oblique injury and a shoulder surgery that ended his regular starting duties.

Tennessee Titans v Indianapolis Colts - Source: Getty

The timing is particularly challenging for fantasy managers, as Anthony Richardson has been on a remarkable streak. According to RotoBaller's Andy Smith, the dynamic quarterback averaged 23.1 PPR points per game over his last five starts, finding the end zone nine times during that stretch.

Veteran Joe Flacco will take the reins of the Colts offense for Sunday's crucial matchup.

How has Joe Flacco performed as Anthony Richardson's replacement?

Syndication: The Indianapolis Star - Source: Imagn

Flacco has proven himself a capable fill-in this season. The veteran signal-caller has completed 66.5% of his passes for 1,167 yards across five games. His nine touchdowns against five interceptions, along with a 91.5 passer rating, demonstrate his steady hand at the helm.

For fantasy managers scrambling to adjust their lineups, Flacco presents an intriguing option - particularly in Superflex formats. He's averaged 233.4 passing yards per game and will face a Giants defense that ranks 24th in points allowed this season.

The Colts' playoff hopes remain alive, but they'll need wins in their final two games plus help from either the Broncos or Chargers. According to ESPN's Stephen Holder, Anthony Richardson's injury isn't expected to keep him sidelined for Week 18's matchup against Jacksonville.

Indianapolis will likely lean heavily on its ground game against New York's struggling run defense. However, without Richardson's dual-threat capabilities, expect a more traditional offensive approach under Flacco's leadership.