Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson has been splitting first-team reps during his first exposure to OTAs, but the flashes of upside are making their way through.
It is known that the No. 4 overall pick has a long road of development ahead. He’s not shying away from the challenge, and we’ve gotten a glimpse of that upside during the first week of OTAs.
Even head coach Shane Steichen admitted to seeing some impressive throws from the rookie quarterback despite this being the first time he’s gone against a professional defense.
“You know what, he’s done a really nice job. I’ve been really pleased with where he’s at mentally,” Steichen told the media Thursday. “He made some big plays today on the football field. He made some great throws, great decisions – some really next-level stuff that I’ve seen over the last couple days. I’m really pleased with where he’s at.”
It’s very likely that the Colts will continue to split the reps between Richardson and veteran Gardner Minshew. Having viable competition and a potential bridge option in the form of Minshew will only make Richardson better.
Going from his system in Florida to Steichen’s offense in the NFL is akin to learning an entirely new language. But Steichen has been pleased with the progress and improvements Richardson has already shown throughout his first offseason with the team.
“He’s been great. I think as a quarterback, obviously learning the system is a big part of it, you know what I mean? But it’s knowing where to throw it, when to throw it and how to throw it,” Steichen said. “I think he’s taken on the coaching really well and understanding the rhythm and the timing of the passing game and what we’re trying to get accomplished, and he’s done a nice job.”
There’s still a long way to go before we will truly know what to expect for Richrdson’s rookie season, but it’s encouraging that he’s already making strides in certain areas.
The Colts will get two more weeks of OTA practices and mandatory minicamp to see Richardson’s progress before breaking for summer in the middle of June.
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