The Indianapolis Colts have finally drafted their quarterback of the future. On April 27, 2023, every Colts fan was glued to their TV as the Colts were on the clock. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell slowly walks to the podium as time had already expired and the screen displayed “Pick Is In”. I was anxious and nervous at the same time because I didn’t know who would be announced after quarterbacks Bryce Young (Panthers) and CJ Stroud (Texans) were already off the board. Goodell finally announced with the 4th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select Anthony Richardson out of Florida. During the time of the selection, I was recording a “draft special” with my guys from the Horseshoe Mob podcast (@Horseshoe_Mob). Here are some reactions on the selection:
After that pick, I didn’t care what GM Chris Ballard did the rest of the draft because we got our guy. We’ve been waiting on this since Andrew Luck’s retirement back in 2019. I know drafting Anthony Richardson comes with a risk but it also comes with a high reward. Colts fans seen what Anthony Richardson displayed at the combine showing off both the arm talent and the athleticism. Here’s Anthony Richardson numbers from the combine:
Very impressive right? I know there are some concerns about his completion percentage (54%) he had in college but with the small sample we got to see in 13 games, the Colts organization feel very confident they can fix that. Here’s what GM Chris Ballard had to say about Anthony Richardson completion rate:
The Colts are hopeful new head coach Shane Steichen can fix Anthony Richardson similar to what he did with Eagles QB Jalen Hurts, who just completed an MVP caliber season and took his team to the NFL Superbowl. He also signed one of the richest contracts in history before Ravens QB Lamar Jackson signed a luxury contract on yesterday. No, I’m not expecting Anthony Richardson to replicate what Jalen Hurts did this past season but I do expect some growing pains as well as some electrifying plays leaving me speechless.
There are some questions on rather Anthony Richardson should start Week 1 or sit for a year or two. Head coach Shane Steichen said the only way Anthony Richardson can get better and thats through reps, reps, reps. Both Owner Jim Irsay and GM Chris Ballard came out and supported thier coach. Colts writer, Zak Keefer interviewed Anthony Richardson and he said he wants to be ready Week 1. He also said “They picked me this high for a reason.” He also memorized the play former head head coach Steve Mariccui drew up. The kid is smart.
Colts fans here are some highlights on what you should expect to see on the field from Anthony Richardson:
Draft Grade: A
https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-day-1-quick-snap-grades-for-all-32-teams
