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Colts’ HC Compares Anthony Richardson to NBA Star Heading Into 2nd Year
The Indianapolis Colts will be getting back second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson this season following surgery to his throwing shoulder. The No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft was limited to just four games but provided evidence that he could be the starter moving forward.
More news: Big Injury Update On Anthony Richardson Provided By Indianapolis GM
He threw for 577 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. But where he was most dangerous was on the ground as he racked up 136 yards and four touchdowns.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – OCTOBER 08: Anthony Richardson #5 of the Indianapolis Colts throws a pass against the Tennessee Titans during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Richardson was compared to how Steph Curry is used by his head coach.
Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Shane Steichen was asked whether or not it could be beneficial for the Colts to limit Richardson on running attempts to avoid further injury. The head coach responded fairly honestly, comparing his young signal-caller to Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors.
“People ask this, too, a lot,” Steichen said at a Thursday news conference. “It’s just like ‘Hey, are you gonna limit the run game?’ And I kind of think, like, shoot, are you gonna limit Steph Curry from shooting three-pointers? Well, that’s one of Anthony’s strengths. So, we’re not gonna get away from that. That’s what he does well.”
Richardson showed that he was extremely effective in running the ball in limited time this past season. Before his injury, he was firing on all cylinders and Indianapolis is excited about the potential he has going forward.
The second-year player echoed a similar sentiment to that of his head coach but wants to do what is best for the team. He knows that his legs are what makes him special as a talent but also that he has to be more careful when running the ball going forward.
“My legs [have] always been one of my superpowers,” Richardson said. “So, trying to take that away from me, I don’t think that’s a good thing for this offense. It’s just more so me playing a little bit smarter, and learning how to take care of myself and my teammates. Knowing when to make the right play and knowing when to try to get the extra few yards. Don’t take my legs away, but being more smart.”
Staying on the field will be crucial to the development of Richardson and the overall success of the Colts. Playing in the wide-open AFC South, Indianapolis could make some noise and get themselves back to the postseason for the first time since 2020.
More news: Colts Defender Has Lofty Goals For 2024: ‘Best Defensive Line in the League’
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.