The Colts are pointing the franchise back in the direction they were supposed to be heading all along. What looked like an exit ramp off the developmental path of Anthony Richardson turned out to be more of an oasis.

Two weeks after benching Anthony Richardson, then hinting the 2023 first-round draft pick might never start for the team again, Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen has completely reversed course.

Richardson came back from a hip injury only to lose his starting job before Week 9. On one hand, it was justifiable; the Colts had a .500 record despite the league’s worst quarterback play. In the short term, Flacco provided the best opportunity for instant gratification.