How does the Indianapolis Colts’ backup quarterback situation compare to the rest of the NFL?
Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated recently ranked all 32 backup quarterbacks, and the Colts’ Anthony Richardson came in at No. 10 on his list.
“Yes, Richardson has struggled throughout his career and has been unable to stay available,” wrote Manzano. “Still, I can’t get over how dominant Richardson was in the first month of his rookie season in 2023. There were shades of Cam Newton and Josh Allen with his arm strength and massive 6’4″, 244-pound frame. In a spot start or in relief, Richardson’s game could give teams plenty of fits—that’s if he’s available.”
Despite Richardson’s up-and-down career, which includes having a 51% career completion rate with 13 interceptions to just 11 touchdown passes, the Colts do have an 8-7 record when he’s under center.
Two offseason priorities for Richardson have been on his footwork and overall mechanics — two areas that should help improve his accuracy.
While still very early, Richardson has looked sharp during the OTA sessions open to the media. ESPN’s Stephen Holder posted that Richardson looked “really good,” throwing a “couple of dimes” during the first practice a week ago. Consistency, however, is the biggest thing for Richardson that must be maintained.
All that said, whether or not Richardson is the Colts’ backup come Week 1 remains to be seen. He could be traded between now and then, or Riley Leonard could earn that role — the two are competing for that job.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: How does Colts’ backup QB situation compare to rest of NFL?
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
