**Colts' Leadership Debriefs Anthony Richardson on His Recent Benching**

In a recent development, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson met with general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen to discuss the reasons behind his unexpected benching. According to The IndyStar's Nate Atkins, this meeting aimed to provide clarity to the young quarterback regarding the decision.

The conversation, which lasted 45 minutes, was meant to ensure Richardson understood the rationale behind the benching. Notably, the decision was swiftly communicated to only a select few teammates, while others learned about it through social media, highlighting the suddenness of the move.

Details of the meeting remain private, but it appears that Richardson's performance and actions during the third quarter of last Sunday's game played a significant role. Richardson, who was the 4th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has been considered a work-in-progress, and the Colts had preached patience in his development.

Despite these assurances, the Colts have now opted to bench Richardson after just 10 career starts. He has been relegated to the position of the backup quarterback, with longtime NFL veteran Joe Flacco taking over as the starter. This shift means that Richardson is unlikely to regain a starting role before the 2025 season unless he excels in a future competition during training camp and preseason.

The decision underscores the Colts' frustration with Richardson's recent performance and actions, marking a significant shift in their approach to his development.