The Indianapolis Colts are hoping they have the face of the franchise in hand with Anthony Richardson.
The Colts took Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft because of his sky-high potential, though he is still considered a raw quarterback prospect.
Richardson has all the tools to be a great player in the league, though he and the rest of the offense will be a bit shorthanded to start the 2023 season as Jonathan Taylor was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to an ankle injury.
Taylor and Indianapolis were embroiled in a contract dispute the past month that led to the running back seeking a trade.
However, the Colts were unable to find a suitable trade partner which means Taylor will remain on the roster for the time being.
Taylor is set to miss at least the first four games of the season though Indianapolis general manager Chris Ballard doesn’t believe that his absence is going to hurt Richardson’s development via Ari Meirov The 33rd Team.
“Did it stunt Andrew Luck’s growth without a special back?” Ballard retorted.
#Colts GM Chris Ballard says he doesn't think Jonathan Taylor's situation will hinder Anthony Richardson's growth.
"Did it stunt Andrew Luck's growth without a special back?"pic.twitter.com/rHksHLLTom
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 30, 2023
A good running back can ease the burden off a quarterback, so having Taylor around to help Richardson as he acclimates to the league would have been a huge benefit.
However, Ballard does have a point that quarterback prospects can still grow without a great backfield mate.
For now, Richardson will have to make do with the weapons he has available though hopefully Taylor is able to come back and contribute sooner rather than later.
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