JUST IN: NFL Communicates With Colts QB Regarding MVP Prospect
But I believe that he will have a breakout year under the direction of Shane Steichen, the perfect coach. In order to disprove his naysayers, he will also have the chance to work with rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell, producing a ton of memorable moments. Richardson, Mitchell, and the Colts—who have also locked up their best receiver, Michael Pittman Jr.—are my picks. If all goes according to plan, Richardson will be acknowledged as one of the best players in his position very soon.
Despite being limited to just four games played in the previous campaign due to a shoulder injury that ended the season, Richardson’s first professional appearance with the Colts was quite encouraging.
Richardson gained 577 throwing yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception on 50 of 84 pass attempts (59.5%). He also scored four running touchdowns and gained 136 yards on 25 carries (5.4 ypc average) in the passing game. Although he still has room to grow, his first performance was quite good.
The 21-year-old rookie quarterback for the Colts showed remarkable arm power, athleticism, pocket presence, and poise that belied his age. He also demonstrated his explosive dual-threat skills. Despite being called a “project” by some, Richardson has made more progress than many NFL observers had predicted.
While his AFC South counterpart, C.J. Stroud, is ranked higher at #4, it’s easy to forget that Richardson’s Colts defeated Stroud’s Houston Texans on the road in Week 2 of the previous season.
There’s little doubt Indianapolis would have been the better team if Richardson hadn’t been hurt. With their backup quarterback starting 12 games, they came dangerously close to defeating the Texans in the season finale. Had Richardson been healthy, the Colts would have probably won the AFC South and made a serious postseason push.
But that was back then. What counts for now is that the Colts are keeping Richardson in the fold this summer by re-signing top target Michael Pittman Jr., selecting wide receiver AD Mitchell, and selecting two offensive linemen (Matt Goncalves and Tanor Bortolini) early in the NFL Draft.
Richardson seems to be fully healed from surgery, for what that’s worth. Richardson is anticipated to continue getting better under head coach Shane Steichen after completing another NFL summer and training camp. Even though he hasn’t played a full rookie season, his noteworthy starts do matter and, depending on who you ask, might have a big impact on the league MVP race by the end of the season.