It definitely seems like teammates anticipate Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson will make a optimistic leap following his disappointing and short-lived rookie season.
“It’s nice,” All-Professional guard Quenton Nelson stated Tuesday about Richardson taking part within the membership’s voluntary offseason program, per Mike Chappell of Fox 59. “He’s all the things you need in a quarterback. Seeing him work across the constructing and dealing in silence after which going on the market and being a frontrunner. He’s been very on the small print and he’s trying good.”
Richardson entered the NFL as a uncooked prospect who grew to become the fourth decide of the 2023 draft. Indianapolis head coach Shane Steichen named Richardson his full-time starter shortly after the membership’s first preseason recreation, however the 21-year-old finally made simply 4 begins earlier than he went down with a campaign-ending shoulder harm that left him needing surgical procedure.
“Vitality,” Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II stated about what Richardson gives the group. “Clearly, vitality that basically wasn’t there final yr. Clearly, he wasn’t within the constructing.”
In complete, Richardson accomplished 50-of-84 passes (59.5%) for 577 yards with three touchdowns and an interception as a first-year professional. He additionally amassed 136 dashing yards and 4 scores on 25 makes an attempt.
“AR is worked up and I feel we’re going to be explosive,” receiver Josh Downs stated about his fellow 2023 rookie. “[He’s] joking round so much, taking management of the group. He’s excited to be right here. I’m actually seeing him develop and mature. I’m getting nearer to him every day; all people is. I see an actual competitor and an actual gamer.”
A sprained AC joint in his proper shoulder wasn’t Richardson’s solely bodily setback this previous season. He took a shot to his knee late in Indianapolis’ Week 1 recreation versus the Jacksonville Jaguars, and he suffered a concussion in Week 2.
Whereas offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter acknowledged that “it’s good to get [Richardson] again,” Cooter beforehand stated the signal-caller should find “that candy spot of with the ability to use [his] athleticism” after which have the ability to “play that subsequent play.”
As of Wednesday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook listed Richardson fourth among the many betting favorites at +750 odds to win the Comeback Participant of the 12 months Award for the upcoming season. For such a purpose to be attainable, Richardson will first want to indicate he can keep wholesome throughout greater than a handful of video games on the highest degree.
