The Indianapolis Colts knew they needed a franchise quarterback.
The worst-kept secret heading into the draft was that the Colts planned on taking a quarterback with their fourth pick.
When they came on the clock, both Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud were off the board.
But the Colts were still able to select the quarterback that they wanted.
Indianapolis selected Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson, who was one of the most polarizing prospects in the draft.
According to Around the NFL, Colts GM Chris Ballard did not want to watch Richardson become a superstar elsewhere.
Chris Ballard on drafting Anthony Richardson: “I didn’t want to look up and watch him be a superstar somewhere else.”https://t.co/W6YJxFMmpF pic.twitter.com/6UUyC6N8Uo
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 5, 2023
Richardson did not have the college production that his counterparts did.
He threw for 24 touchdowns and 15 interceptions in three college seasons.
But his intangibles are what every NFL GM looks for.
He has the size, speed, and arm strength that are rare for a quarterback prospect.
It makes sense that Ballard was worried about Richardson turning into an elite player on another team.
If the young quarterback can receive proper coaching, the sky is the limit for him.
While it may pay to have Richardson sit for a year, the Colts do not have many better options.
They might throw their rookie out there in Week 1 and hope he can work his way through the growing pains.
It seemed like the Colts were choosing between Richardson or Will Levis.
Now it will be fun to see which one turns into the better NFL player.
NEXT: Video Shows Anthony Richardson's First Throws As A Colt
