Anthony Richardson could have potentially led the Indianapolis Colts to the playoffs last season if not for an injury that sidelined him for most of the campaign. Before his injury, Richardson showcased promising talent, throwing three touchdown passes with only one interception across four games. The Colts had a balanced 2-2 record at that point. After Richardson was sidelined, backup quarterback Gardner Minshew II stepped in and managed to secure a 9-8 final season record for the team.
Meanwhile, C.J. Stroud, a rookie quarterback for the Houston Texans, emerged as a significant competitor within the division. Stroud’s impressive debut season culminated in him winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award and securing a victory in a playoff game.
Colts QB Anthony Richardson on playing in the NFL vs playing in College:
“Playing in the NFL, I feel like, is easier than in college.”
(Via @club520podcast) pic.twitter.com/D2jj9bROyg
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) June 11, 2024
Despite the setbacks in his rookie year, Richardson maintains a positive outlook on his transition from college to the professional level. He expressed on the “Club 520 Podcast” that playing in the NFL felt “easier” compared to his college days at Florida, where he was a full-time starter for one season. Richardson observed that the professional environment is filled with players who are highly motivated to maintain their positions, which he believes simplifies his role. According to him, this mutual dedication ensures that each player focuses on their individual tasks, which collectively leads to better team performance.
The Indianapolis Colts are going to surprise a lot of people this year.
If Anthony Richardson stays healthy they can win the AFC South.
Dont Sleep on the Colts.
💙 = Agree pic.twitter.com/tO3q5ARAgg
— 🌳𝗕𝗪𝗕🌳 (@BettingWithBush) June 12, 2024
As the new season approaches, scrutiny over Richardson’s performance is expected to intensify. Colts fans are particularly eager to see if he can remain healthy and play beyond the four games he managed last season, hoping he can lead the team to dominate their division once again.
Concerns arose last week when Richardson was held out of the final day of minicamp due to soreness in his throwing shoulder. However, Colts head coach Shane Steichen reassured fans and media alike, stating that Richardson would be ready to start if there was a game that Sunday. The decision to rest him was described as a precautionary measure to manage some routine soreness that appeared during Wednesday’s practice.
Anthony Richardson during individual drills. Only throwing left handed so far. #Colts pic.twitter.com/0fNVYNLEuH
— Brett Bensley (@brettbensley) June 6, 2024
Looking ahead, the Colts have additional quarterback options including veterans like Joe Flacco and Sam Ehlinger, as well as Kedon Clovis, an undrafted rookie, which provides the team with depth in the quarterback position.
Major Points
- Anthony Richardson showed potential in his limited appearances for the Indianapolis Colts, throwing three touchdowns with only one interception over four games.
- His season was curtailed by an injury, leading to backup Gardner Minshew II taking over and achieving a 9-8 record for the Colts.
- Richardson compared the NFL to college football, stating that the professional level is easier due to the high motivation of players who are focused on securing their roles.
- Concerns about Richardson’s durability remain as he was rested during minicamp due to shoulder soreness, but the head coach expressed confidence he would play if needed.
- The Colts maintain quarterback depth with Joe Flacco, Sam Ehlinger, and undrafted rookie Kedon Clovis on the roster.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
