INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts are planning for some strategic changes in their quarterback lineup as they prepare for the next season. Despite currently having Anthony Richardson in their squad, selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft and considered a potential long-term starter, the team’s general management is looking to introduce competition to elevate Richardson’s game.
General manager Chris Ballard revealed the intention to find a competent contender to challenge Richardson’s position. Speaking at the league’s annual scouting combine in Indianapolis, Ballard emphasized the importance of seeking a suitable candidate to ensure genuine competition. “We knew when we drafted Anthony there would be an adjustment period, and bringing in someone who can push him could benefit both him and the team,” Ballard said.
Richardson’s journey in the league has been fraught with injuries and inconsistency. His performance has been hindered by a shoulder injury sustained during his rookie season, which limited his play after Week 5. In his subsequent season, he missed four more games due to injuries and was benched for two additional games to focus on improvement.
Challenges with his accuracy have also been a significant concern, as Richardson completed only 47.7% of his passes in the last season—the lowest among NFL starters. His tenure includes 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions over 15 starts. Despite these setbacks, the Colts remain optimistic about Richardson’s potential, emphasizing that bringing in another potential starter could accelerate his development.
Coach Shane Steichen has noted the importance of consistency in Richardson’s performance, discussing this critical aspect repeatedly with the quarterback. Richardson played in 15 games, demonstrating flashes of his potential with his mobility and physical strength, rushing for 499 yards and six touchdowns last season.
Although Richardson’s ability to run makes him more prone to injuries, the Colts do not want to curtail this aspect of his play, especially with the presence of star running back Jonathan Taylor in the backfield. The dynamic between these two players, when both are healthy, is seen as a formidable threat to opposing teams’ run defenses.
The primary challenge is determining how rapidly Richardson will become an intimidating force for opposing pass defenses. Ballard and the Colts’ management believe that introducing healthy competition could foster Richardson’s progress and elevate the overall quality of the quarterback pool. “We all want to see him as a polished player right now,” Ballard stated. “Bringing in competition might just push everyone to step up their game.”
