2023 NFL Draft Profile: QB Anthony Richardson -

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After one full season in Gainesville, Florida’s Anthony Richardson declared for the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6’4″, 244-pound quarterback started as a freshman for the Gators. From the moment he completed his first pass, a 27-yard scoring throw, NFL scouts stood up and take notice. Over twenty-two games, Richardson completed 54.7 percent of his passes for 3105 yards. Additionally, he scored thirty-six touchdowns. Richardson, with eligibility remaining, decided to bet on himself.

NAME

Anthony Richardson

POSITION

Quarterback

HEIGHT

6’4″

WEIGHT

244 pounds

SCHOOL

The University of Florida

Strengths

From a physical standpoint, Richardson resembles a video game player. First, standing six-foot-four, he possesses the height to see over any offensive line, regardless of rush. Add in the 244 pounds with the sub-4.4 speed, you have a gifted athletic talent as a signal caller. Next, not only does the prospect own an elite arm, capable of every NFL throw. Not to mention, Richardson displays consistent velocity that will frighten defenses. When the pocket breaks down, he will escape the pocket and accelerate down the field, streaking by linebackers. On the goal line, look for the prospect to call his own number, either with the sneak or beating defenders to the corner. From a mental standpoint, the former Gator appears intelligent, coachable, and scheme malleable. He expressed the desire to rapidly improve at the next level, which cannot go under-discussed.

Weaknesses

Whatever NFL teams draft Richardson, will need to exercise patience. For as athletically blessed as he is, the prospect brings an underdeveloped game to the next level. In evaluating via film, the player possesses neither consistent footwork nor repeatable motion. That is to say, you will see missteps, errant foot plants, and a throwing motion that will either look overthrown or short-armed. More importantly, Richardson is what many call ” inaccurately accurate”. Meaning, when he does complete a pass, the placement prohibits further yardage, and the receiver is stopped shortly after the grab. As mentioned, the prospect can fire the ball with force. However, he doesn’t flash the ability to feather the ball over defenders. Instead, he rares back and drills the ball, even on the shortest of passes. Lastly, the prospect will lock eyes on a target, drawing the attention of nearby defenders.

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by Full Press Coverage on March 25, 2023 at 12:09 am

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Ideal Role

For the first couple of seasons, Richardson needs to sport a baseball cap and get up to NFL quarterback speed. His new team must have someone on the team, whether it’s the head coach or offensive coordinator, who needs to teach/unteach Richardson. He needs a complete overhaul of everything from mechanics to touch to scanning progressions faster. This could take a while to do. Yet, the reward could pay off handsomely. With his skillset, the potential first-rounder could transform into an elite franchise quarterback. In the NFL, the continuous evolution of the quarterback tilts towards the athletic passer with the ability to affect the course of a game. The words patience and development must be the mantra of the team that selects the passer. With this in mind, which team looks like a fantastic fit?

Potential Fits

With the fourth pick in the draft, the Indianapolis Colts could end up as a landing spot for Richardson. First-year head coach Shane Steichen has a track record of developing quarterbacks. Jalen Hurts’ ascent could be, in part, credited to Steichen. The Colts could run a similar offense to the Eagles and the former Florida Gator. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders could have thrown their hat into the ring. Yesterday, the Raiders signed Jimmy Garoppolo to a three-year deal. In essence, it’s a two-year deal with front-loaded cash. Josh McDaniels prides himself as a quarterback guru, with the ability to craft an NFL quarterback. Under those circumstances, Anthony Richardson could serve as a two-year apprentice and the Raiders could enjoy a seamless transition into the new era. The risk is negated by the presence of a veteran quarterback.