The Colts were over the moon when they drafted Anthony Richardson in the first round (4th overall) of the 2023 Draft. He came on a wave, after achieving a perfect Relative Athletic Score after Cam Newton and Daunte Culpepper. But things have changed since then. HC Shane Steichen started him in 2023 before the quarterback suffered a concussion in the week 2 matchup against the Texans. In the week 8 game against the same opposition last year, he voluntarily took himself out of a play for a breather.
This year, the Colts wanted more solidity. They brought in the former Giants QB Daniel Jones. But their 2024 starter signal caller was unfazed. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the QB claimed he would fight to win the job even if Joe Montana himself was in competition. But many analysts doubt that.
On Wednesday, March 26th, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah appeared on The Rich Eisen Show. He chose the starters for the Colts and said, “I’ll say Daniel Jones. I think everybody thought it was kind of bringing in a veteran to just try and maybe to gas up Richardson. I think he’s got a legitimate chance to win that job, I think there was some disappointment in that building with how things have gone with Anthony Richardson.”
That’s a doom call if we’ve ever heard one! While Anthony Richardson started his NFL career on an acceptable right note with a 2-2 record in the 2023 season, his 6-5 in the 2024 season was seen as more dismal. Moreover, last year, he had 126 of 264 passes (47.7% completion rate) for 1,814 passing yards with 8 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His production needs to go up.
The Colts signal caller did, however, show talent in the rushing department. In 2024, he had 86 rushes for 499 rushing yards and 6 TDs. But Daniel Jones will give him serious competition for that starting spot. The Colts’ head coach openly supported Richardson on multiple occasions last year. But this time, he may test his resources before picking his starting choice.
However, if they really want to succeed, they need to find some fresh players too. The O-line needs solid boosts.
Anthony Richardson & co. expecting Penn State TE in draft
Before you envision the Colts O-line players, read this stat. The Colts haven’t had a tight end in the roster who ended the season with 500+ yards… since 2018! All this time has passed while the AFC South team franchise has been struggling. They might overcome this in the coming draft.
While talking about the college players, former NFL GM Mike Tannebaum chose Penn State TE Tyler Warren as the Colts pick this year. He praised the college athlete and said, “Warren has a rare skill set at tight end. He’s 6-6 and extremely talented. He had a remarkable 104 catches last season, and I envision Indy coach Shane Steichen moving him all around the offense to create mismatches.”
A player of that stature will also help Anthony Richardson and others to win games. He became America’s top T2 prospect with the John Mackey Award to end the 2024 season. That’s impressive! In 5 years for the Nittany Lions, he played 56 games (31 starters) and recorded 153 receptions for 1,839 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns.
This year is the 10th season for the franchise since last being divisional winners. They haven’t qualified for the playoffs since 2020. It’s a testing time. Neither Richardson nor Jones has been massively successful in their NFL careers so far. Indy would love for one (or both) of them to step up big time!
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