Anthony Richardson’s bizarre mid-game withdrawal for being too ‘tired’ may well have cost him dearly.

Richardson, the fourth overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, exited the Indianapolis Colts‘ match against the Houston Texans in the third quarter.

Richardson left the field during the loss against the Texans, complaining he was ‘tired’AP

It left Colts fans fearing the worst given he missed the majority of the 2023 season due to shoulder surgery.

However, it emerged post-game Richardson simply wanted a breather because he was knackered.

“I was tired,” Richardson told reporters after the 30-23 loss to the Texans.

“I ain’t gonna lie. That was a lot of running right there.

“I didn’t think I was going to be able to go that next play, so I just told Shane (Steichen) I just needed a break right there.”

It appears the unusual request has prompted a seismic call from the Colts’ coaching staff.

According to ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, Indianapolis have dropped Richardson to the bench in place of veteran QB Joe Flacco.

Flacco’s elevation to starting duties continues his stunning late career surge.

The 39-year-old was added to the Cleveland Browns‘ practice squad last season after Deshaun Watson sustained a season-ending injury.

However, Flacco became the starter for the Browns when Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who was Watson’s backup, got ruled out with concussion.

Flacco will assume starting duties for the ColtsGetty

Flacco rolled back the years and enjoyed three consecutive games in which he threw for 300 yards or more for the first time in his career.

Records continued to tumble with Flacco under centre, one of which was becoming the first player in league history to toss for 250 yards and several passing touchdowns in his first five games for a team.

Flacco’s 4-1 run as the Browns’ starting QB also helped the franchise seal a spot in the playoffs for the first time in three years.

However, his magic could only last so long as the Texans overwhelmed the Browns in a 45-14 mauling.

Flacco was deservedly named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year and eventually moved on to the Colts in March as Watson prepared to make his return from injury for the Browns.

He has already thrown for 716 yards and seven touchdowns for the Colts this season and is 1-1 as a starter.

Flacco’s first test as the Colts’ starting QB will be a daunting fixture against the Minnesota Vikings, who are 5-2.