Colts swing for the fences in 2023 NFL Draft
The Indianapolis Colts needed new life and a fresh face at the most important position in football. They got just that with their No. 4 overall selection on Thursday night in Kansas City. Indianapolis was fortunate to choose from two of the top signal callers in the class. In the end, the Colts opted for […]
The Indianapolis Colts needed new life and a fresh face at the most important position in football. They got just that with their No. 4 overall selection on Thursday night in Kansas City.
Indianapolis was fortunate to choose from two of the top signal callers in the class. In the end, the Colts opted for Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson over Kentucky passer Will Levis, who was linked to the franchise for much of the process.
Richardson has all the potential in the world to be a home run pick for general manager Chris Ballard. He is a high-upside prospect behind center that appears to be an ideal fit for first-year head coach Shane Steichen.
Steichen was the offensive coordinator with the Philadelphia Eagles before taking over in Indianapolis. He played a significant role in Jalen Hurts developing from a second-round draft selection into the MVP runner-up.
Richardson, similarly to Hurts, has showcased the ability to do damage through the air and on the ground. He puts major stress on defenses with his rocket of an arm and his elusiveness outside of the pocket.
"(Richardson) is a freakshow talent with special size, speed and arm strength, and he put enough promising plays on film to be optimistic about his potential ceiling," The Athletic NFL Draft expert Dane Brugler wrote in his scouting report.
Which makes Richardson's fit in Indianapolis even more intriguing. A lot of his strengths seem to match up well with what Steichen's offense does best. There is a lot to like about the pairing.
"He fits an RPO or NFL vertical-passing offense that will also utilize his athleticism, but he needs on-field reps and a patient coaching staff willing to weather the early storm," Brugler wrote.
Steichen is entering his first season at the helm, so he should have the luxury of being patient with the rookie signal-caller as Richardson progresses. That will be a big benefit because the Florida quarterback will have a learning curve.
All things considered, the Indianapolis Colts are swinging for the fences at quarterback. The Anthony Richardson selection signals that the franchise is hoping to win big.