The Indianapolis Colts selected quarterback Anthony Richardson in the top-five of the 2023 NFL Draft. There are always high expectations when a quarterback is selected so early, but there's also an important transition period to the NFL.

Indianapolis head coach Shane Steichen and the staff are handling Richardson's transition carefully. Rather than rushing the development, the Colts are splitting first-team reps between Richardson and veteran Gardner Minshew.

Richardson had his fair share of highs and lows in practices during OTAs. There's a lot to be excited about, but there's also some work to be done, too. Steichen revealed the biggest obstacle for Richardson as he makes his move to the league. 

That would be in the red zone. The red zone is where defenses tighten up and offenses have less room to operate. More importantly, offenses are expected to execute at an even higher level being so close to the end zone.

After all, touchdowns win games. Offenses can ill-afford to waste red zone opportunities and settle for field goals too often. Which puts more pressure on the quarterback to succeed when in that part of the field.

"One of the biggest transitions for a rookie quarterback is the red zone," Steichen explained after Richardson nearly threw two interceptions in the red zone during practice. "The windows are so tight.”

It should come as no surprise that Richardson is still learning how to succeed in the red zone. That is part of the process for an incoming rookie, especially given how different the speed of NFL defenses is compared to college.

The dynamic ability of Richardson should help him, especially early. He can create in and out of the pocket and is a threat that defenses must account for through the air and on the ground.

Fortunately, Richardson has all of the offseason, training camp, and preseason to continue developing that part of his game. The more reps, the better for Richardson in that regard as he improves his craft.

Featured image via USA TODAY Sports