Some fans and pundits believe Anthony Richardson is a bust. Sure, the young Indianapolis Colts quarterback might turn out to be one. But right now, it’s too early for that kind of talk. Will Richardson have a breakout season and ditch the dreaded “bust” label in 2025?
While it’s going to take a lot of improvement for that to happen, it’s certainly not impossible. Richardson’s career in Indianapolis has been far from spectacular. But he possesses a ton of potential and just might surprise a lot of people next season.
Richardson’s Colts teammate Alec Pierce was considered a bust following his first two years in Indy. Yet, nobody’s calling him that anymore after his breakout 2024 season. Could Richardson follow suit next season?
Will the Colts’ Anthony Richardson Shed the “Bust” Label in 2025?
His Career Thus Far
Anthony Richardson played three seasons at the University of Florida. During his time with the Gators, he threw for 3,105 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,116 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Indianapolis drafted Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, his rookie year was limited to four games due to injury.
The Colts hoped Richardson would break out last season. However, he had another disappointing campaign. He missed six games due to injury and being benched temporarily. Plus, he completely just 47.7 percent of his passes.
There were a few highlights to Richardson’s 2024 season, though. Against the New York Jets in Week 11, he passed for 272 yards and a touchdown while completing 67 percent of his passes. He also has two rushing touchdowns, including the game-winner as the Colts won 28-27. Then in Week 13 versus the New England Patriots, Richardson orchestrated an 80-yard touchdown drive, capped off with a go-ahead two-point conversion. The Colts won that game 25-24.
Yes, He Can Do It
Without a doubt, Richardson needs to improve his accuracy. Competing less than 48 percent of his passes is not good at all. And, of course, he must find a way to stay healthy. He has missed 17 of a possible 34 career games due to four different injuries.
The Colts intend to have an open competition at quarterback between Richardson and someone who the team brings in this offseason. General manager Chris Ballard discussed this subject during the NFL scouting combine via ESPN’s Stephen Holder.
“It’s got to be the right guy to create real competition, “Ballard said. “We want to create real competition. I think it’s good for the team. I think it’s good for Anthony. We drafted Anthony high knowing it was going to take some time and we knew there’s going to be some hiccups along the way. I know we all want a finished product right now. I do. You do. Fans do. We all do. But I think as he continues to progress in his young career, us adding competition, I think, will help up everybody’s game.”
It’s unclear who Richardson will compete with. Justin Fields would be an ideal pickup. Guys like Jameis Winston and Mac Jones are also possibilities. Whoever it is could push Richardson to become a better quarterback. This offseason, Richardson is working with Chris Hess, the same coach who helped Josh Allen transform his throwing mechanics. Don’t be surprised if Richardson pulls an Alec Pierce in 2025 and is no longer known as a bust.
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