The Indianapolis Colts have officially seen the preseason debut of Anthony Richardson.
Richardson was a polarizing quarterback prospect, as some believed he wasn’t NFL-ready.
In his preseason debut, Richardson went 7-12, amassing 67 passing yards.
He did throw an interception, which many regarded as a poor pass.
In the aftermath of this game, Sam Monson of PFF indicated that, if Richardson emulates Cam Newton, his game will be that much better.
Sam thinks the more Anthony Richardson runs like Cam Newton, the better @PFF_Steve | @PFF_Sam pic.twitter.com/vd4H4DlUlk
— PFF NFL Podcast (@PFFNFLPod) August 14, 2023
Richardson’s player profile is similar to Newton, given his propensity to take off on the run.
He’s also similar to Lamar Jackson and Justin Fields, fitting the new mold of NFL quarterback.
At six-foot-four, Richardson’s size and speed, on paper, should result in great NFL success.
Can he live up to the pressure the Colts organization is placing upon him?
Being a franchise’s quarterback provides immense pressure.
Richardson is tasked with helping turn the franchise around, especially after their 4-12-1 campaign in 2022.
He’ll likely have a long leash this season given his draft capital and the amount of public praise he’s received.
The organization believes that he’s the answer, and has surrounded him with several talented members on offense.
His offensive line is one of the best in the league, Jonathan Taylor is an elite running back, and his receivers are up and coming.
Can he turn around the franchise, showing glimmers of hope during his rookie campaign?
Monson believes Richardson could play similarly to Newton, who won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Richardson has some big shoes to fill to catch up to Newton.
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