JUST IN: 3 Important Things Anthony Richardson Can Learn From Joe Flacco

“The seasoned quarterback has been outstanding over the past two weeks, and the Colts should continue to rely on his momentum.”

Anthony Richardson is going to be fine. He’s expected to remain the starting quarterback for a long time, and his performance will only improve as he gains more experience, especially now that he’s returning to the field this week. However, he has shown rawness in his play this season, whereas Joe Flacco has demonstrated a more polished passing game. While Flacco is no longer a top-tier quarterback, he possesses certain qualities that have made him successful throughout his career and continue to help him today. Richardson could benefit from refining his accuracy, timing, and decision-making to reach Flacco’s level of passing proficiency.

 

 

In the past, many top quarterbacks drafted didn’t see the field in their rookie season or had to wait a significant amount of time before starting. For example, Carson Palmer, the first overall pick in 2003, didn’t play a single snap as a rookie. Alex Smith, drafted first overall in 2005, didn’t start until October of his rookie season. Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers, Tua Tagovailoa, Jordan Love, and Jalen Hurts also had to wait before becoming starters, sometimes for entire seasons.

While some quarterbacks have succeeded early, those players generally had more college experience and were more prepared for the pro game. Richardson, with just 12 starts in college, was far from a refined passer, often struggling with timing and accuracy. He had a tendency to miss short to intermediate throws and deliver passes late. What sets him apart, however, is his exceptional athleticism, rare physical size, and a powerful arm capable of making any throw on the field.

At 22 years old, born in 2002, Richardson is the second-youngest quarterback on any NFL roster, with only Drake Maye being younger. To thrive as an NFL quarterback, three key traits are necessary: accuracy, timing, and sound decision-making. While some quarterbacks with weaker arms have succeeded by mastering these aspects, Richardson’s immense physical tools give him a unique edge and sky-high potential.

Accuracy

Accuracy is critical in the NFL because passing windows are very narrow, and players move and react at a much faster pace. Ball placement is equally important, as it helps receivers not only make the catch but also gain additional yards. For instance, throwing behind a receiver on a drag route limits the play to a few yards, while hitting the receiver in stride can turn a short 3-yard gain into a potential 15-yard play. An example of this precision can be seen in the second throw highlighted in Baldinger’s breakdown below.

Timing

Timing is crucial because, as mentioned earlier, windows to complete passes are much tighter, and the players are quicker and faster, so being late with your throws can lead to turnovers. Timing includes anticipation—quarterbacks often need to “throw receivers open.” For instance, in the NFL, if you wait until a receiver is two steps out of an out route to throw, it’s usually too late. Elite quarterbacks release the ball before the receiver even makes their cut because the receiver is typically most open right after the cut, and you want to deliver the ball at that moment. Like accuracy, good timing not only reduces turnovers but can also turn a short gain into a much bigger play.

Smart Decision-Making

Good decision-making is the final key factor. Tom Brady built an iconic career by often utilizing short, safe passes. Colts fans vividly recall numerous games where Brady methodically picked apart their defense with quick checkdowns, especially against a Tampa 2 scheme that left the middle open. Great quarterbacks rarely force risky throws, and when they do, it’s usually in desperate situations. While having a stronger arm can expand a quarterback’s options, smart decision-making focuses on taking high-percentage throws, minimizing turnovers, and consistently moving the ball. As seen in many of Brady’s games, he might not throw beyond 10 yards often, yet still go 25/35 for 250 yards and two touchdowns, leading to an easy win. These quarterbacks capitalize on what’s available and maximize opportunities. The charts below further illustrate this point.

 

After reviewing the charts, it’s clear that Flacco is excelling by sticking to short, safe throws and avoiding risky plays. He’s methodically moving the ball with a series of “paper cut” passes, typically around 5-6 yards each, occasionally mixing in a big play. Meanwhile, Richardson relies almost exclusively on his powerful arm and deep throws, which isn’t a sustainable approach in the NFL. Even though Flacco only has a fraction of Richardson’s arm strength and athleticism, he’s been the more effective quarterback this season due to his superior decision-making.

At 39, Flacco has played about 11 quarters this season, completing 71 of 108 passes for 716 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 1 interception. He even had a 21-yard run! His passer rating of 102 ranks among the best in the NFL recently. These stats were put up against some tough defenses, especially the Steelers, who have been ranked as the top defense in various categories. Flacco’s success comes from his accuracy, smart decisions, and timely throws.

Richardson, on the other hand, has shown flashes of greatness, displaying accuracy and timing at times. He has also gone stretches without forcing throws, showing potential in decision-making. However, consistency is what sets great quarterbacks apart, and that’s where Richardson still has room to grow.

Flacco may not have the arm talent he once did, but his consistency keeps him relevant in the NFL, whether he’s playing for the Browns or Colts. The hope is that Richardson can combine Flacco’s decision-making skills with his own unique arm strength and athleticism, potentially evolving into a quarterback like Josh Allen.