Anthony Richardson, drafted fourth overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2023 NFL draft, is now under intense scrutiny as the 2025 season approaches. The Colts, aware of Richardson’s limited experience, expected early development but have seen mixed results in his first two years. Following an injury-shortened rookie campaign and a sophomore year lacking significant progress, the team and fans alike are demanding a breakthrough performance from Richardson in the upcoming season.
Competition Intensifies with Veteran Addition Daniel Jones
To stimulate Richardson’s growth and push him towards improved performance, the Colts acquired veteran quarterback Daniel Jones as competition at the starting quarterback position. Early indications from training camp suggest this move is having an impact. On the third day of camp, Richardson demonstrated clear improvement, drawing positive attention for his on-field efforts.
Practice is about to wrap, and we finally had a QB outperform the other. This was Anthony Richardson’s best day. Much more to come on @ColtsOn_SI and @LockedOnColts.— Jake Arthur (@JakeArthurNFL) July 25, 2025
Expert Analysis Highlights Stakes for Richardson’s Role
Despite flashes of promise, Richardon’s role remains uncertain amid growing competition and questions about his medical history and readiness. ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell listed Richardson among the four quarterbacks facing the most pressure in 2025, detailing the challenges that surround the young signal-caller.
It’s the point of no return for Richardson, who faces serious competition for his starting job in Daniel Jones with a franchise that seems to have lost some level of faith in the 2023 top-five pick,
Barnwell noted.
He missed most of his rookie year with a shoulder injury, was benched for asking out of a game last season and has dealt with a setback to his surgically repaired shoulder this offseason, although it appears he will be ready to return for training camp.
The story hasn’t changed with Richardson,
Barnwell continued.
He has the potential to be the league’s most exciting athlete at quarterback, combining elite size (6-foot-4, 244 pounds) to be part of the designed run game with speed and an elite arm… And yet, simultaneously, Richardson is not an experienced enough quarterback to rely on if the Colts want to win games. Nobody in the league misses open receivers more often… And while he can be a threat as a runner, the Colts haven’t been able to convince him to avoid defenders at the end of plays. If coach Shane Steichen can’t trust Richardson to stay healthy as part of the run game, it’s a different story.
Experience and Health Challenges Cast Doubts on Long-Term Prospects
Barnwell further emphasized Richardson’s lack of professional experience and limited practice throws, underscoring the urgency for improvement.
Richardson has thrown just 741 passes over the past five years since leaving high school, let alone at the pro level,
Barnwell explained.
A meaningful portion of those were screens and RPOs, leaving him with a handful of dropback snaps each season. He’s still only 23, but Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard probably aren’t in position to give him another season to figure things out without being worried about competing for a playoff spot.
Colts Await Clear Signs of Development Before Committing Long-Term
The Colts’ decision on Richardson’s fifth-year option, which will be considered soon, depends heavily on his 2025 performance and ability to stay healthy. Without notable and consistent improvement, the franchise is unlikely to make a long-term commitment. For Richardson, simply completing a full, injury-free season may become the minimum expectation as he looks to solidify his place on the team and meet the demands of the franchise and its supporters in the 2025 season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Anthony Richardson’s hip?
A. The injury happened during a planned run involving Richardson. A player from the Steelers tugged him from behind, causing him to twist awkwardly. Another defender then tackled him. Before hurting his hip, Richardson had successfully completed three out of four passes, totaling 71 yards.
Q. How long did Anthony Richardson’s tattoo take?
A. Indianapolis Colts player Anthony Richardson spent seven hours under anesthesia to get a tattoo that fills his back. The design reflects his passion for God and gambling. It features images like an angel, a roulette wheel, a Spartan warrior, and a lion.
Q. Can I drop Anthony Richardson?
A. In a league with just one starting quarterback, it’s a wise decision to drop Richardson and choose one of these available players to improve your team. In leagues where you play two quarterbacks or have a Superflex position, it’s even more reasonable to let go of Richardson, especially if you can add someone like Maye or Wilson.
Q. What did Anthony Richardson do to his hip?
A. Richardson carried the ball three times for a total of 24 yards. During his second run, he injured his right hip after a hard tackle, which led to a fumble and forced him to leave the field. He came back three plays later and seemed to take another hit, possibly to his head, near the Steelers 5-yard line. Afterward, he got up and headed directly to the locker room.