‘Don’t want to take the risk there’ – Shane Steichen explains a controversial choice the Colts are making with Anthony Richardson
Colts head coach shares why they made a certain decision for their upcoming preseason finale
The Indianapolis Colts shocked a lot of their fan base this week when they announced Daniel Jones as the starter over Anthony Richardson. And one of the team’s plans for their preseason finale created even more confusion.
The Colts will not play Richardson in their preseason finale vs. the Cincinnati Bengals despite him losing the team’s QB battle. A QB who desperately needs more snaps to develop as an NFL passer will instead watch on the sideline this weekend to prepare him for the very role he will have on game days during the regular season.
Anthony Richardson won’t play in the Colts’ preseason finale despite losing the QB battle
Colts head coach Shane Steichen was asked why Richardson won’t play in the preseason finale now that he is the backup. Steichen shared that Richardson is “one play away” from being entered into the starting lineup, which is a reference to what would happen if Jones were to suffer an injury this season. This is true, but I still think Richardson needs as many reps as he can get if they want him to be ready for that opportunity should it arise.
Another reason given by Steichen, though, provides a better understanding of why the Colts would not throw Richardson out there. The team plans to play their third and fourth strings across the roster, so if Richardson were out there, that would be his supporting cast on offense. That includes the offensive line that has had its fair share of struggles, even with the starters as of late. So throwing him behind third and fourth string linemen doesn’t feel like he would be able to get many, if any, worthwhile reps.
I’m sure watching on the sideline is the last thing Richardson wants to do. However, it appears to be the best option for the Colts at this time. I do think there is an interesting element to consider here, though. The fact is, if the Colts wanted to consider trading Richardson, you’d assume they’d want him out there to showcase his talent for other teams. There has been no public trade request from Richardson, and if that were to come, my opinion on this may change; however, right now, I don’t think that’s something the Colts are considering.
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