INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Despite starting only 13 games at the University of Florida, and being selected forth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts have named Anthony Richardson their starting quarterback for the upcoming 2023-24 season.
Richardson, a 6’4 255 pound native of Miami, Florida, redshirted his freshman year down in Gainesville, completing one pass for 27 yards, one touchdown and one interception, before filling in for Emory Jones as a backup. Richardson replaces Jones in completing 10/19 passes for 167 yards, three passing TD’s, two interceptions and a rushing touchdown vs. LSU.
I’m what would be his breakout game, Richardson passed for 453 yards and two touchdowns along with 17 rushes for 67 yards and two TD’s on the ground in a 38-33 loss to Tennessee. That game would ultimately vault him into the NFL Draft, and being selected by the Colts.
Fast forward to now, and with two preseason games under his belt as an NFL quarterback, in passing for 67 yards vs. the Buffalo Bills, highlighted by a head-scratching interception, before officially being named starter is a questionable move to say the least.
While Richardson is still raw and has a lot of untapped upside, naming a prospect such as the former Gator standout starter over a proven NFL quarterback such as Gardener Minshew, could prove to be a fatal mistake by rookie head coach Shane Steichen.
While the former offensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles a great job in developing Jalen Hurts into one of the top QB’s right now, Richardson is going to need a lot more work than Hurts, the Colts are not at the same talent level as the defending NFC champions.
It’s a big gamble to say the least, and while Richardson is a big risk, he could either be a bet that may end up paying off down the road.