High hopes for Anthony Richardson in 2024
The Indianapolis Colts have high expectations for their second-year quarterback, Anthony Richardson. During an appearance on the Green Light podcast with Chris Long, general manager Chris Ballard made an intriguing comparison to former Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair.
“While he didn’t have the same level of production as many other quarterbacks, the moments of brilliance were very noticeable,” Ballard said on the podcast. “As I continued to watch him, he reminded me of Steve McNair from his time at Alcorn. Though slightly different, their play styles were quite similar. McNair set numerous records at his small school.”
The Colts selected Richardson with the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Florida, hoping he would become their franchise quarterback. Despite not having standout statistics at Florida, Richardson’s potential impressed NFL teams, including the Colts.
Anthony Richardson’s outlook for 2024 season
Richardson achieved a perfect 10.00 RAS score in the 2023 NFL Combine, marking the best performance by any quarterback from 1987 to 2023. His athleticism and ideal play style have drawn comparisons to former NFL MVP Cam Newton. Success for Richardson will depend on his development as a passer and, crucially, his ability to stay healthy, which was an issue last season.
In the previous season, Richardson showed promise with the Colts before a shoulder injury ended his season. Concerns exist about his ability to protect himself when running, but it’s essential not to restrict this aspect of his game. His success will also hinge on his field processing and ability to make the necessary throws for Shane Steichen’s offense.
Richardson’s standout performance likely came in his debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1 of the 2023 season, where he recorded 223 passing yards with a touchdown and an interception, completing 64.9% of his passes, along with 40 rushing yards and a touchdown. The following week against the Houston Texans, Richardson sustained one of his injuries.
Ultimately, Richardson’s season-ending injury occurred in his fourth NFL game against the Titans. While opinions are divided on Richardson as an NFL player, if he meets the expectations of a Steve McNair comparison, he will be successful.
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