Where is Anthony Richardson on NFL.com QB Power Index?
Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts was considered one of the bigger gambles in the NFL Draft. After starting just one season at Florida with mixed results, the Colts made him the No. 4 overall pick in April's NFL Draft.
The early returns for Richardson have been fantastic. His physical ability is range topping, and his work ethic, charisma and humility led to his teammates to voting him a team captain.
Growing pains are expected with Richardson and a young Colts team, so it's not surprise to see him ranked low on the initial NFL.com QB Power Index. Nick Shook took over those responsibilities from Gregg Rosenthal, and Shook puts Richardson at No. 30 to start the year.
"When we use the phrase 'boom or bust,' we should include a photo of Anthony Richardson next to the definition," wrote Shook. "He has elite traits. He also hasn’t produced much proof that he can consistently succeed at quarterback."
"His film is a combination of tantalizing athletic feats and frustrating missed throws. Much of the latter has to do with fundamentals, which can get sloppy (especially in his footwork), but the ability is obviously there."
"Richardson’s preseason followed this theme: He extended plays and picked up extra yards with his feet and launched a few beautiful passes downfield, but he also missed mid-level attempts, firing rockets beyond the reach of his intended targets.
Richardson is going to attract attention because of his potential, and if he becomes more consistent in his delivery, he can be the quarterback the Colts have sought since the retirement of Andrew Luck. But he’s far from a sure thing."
Shook mentioned Richardson's tantalizing traits, but didn't fully delve into the fact that he's arguably the most athletically gifted quarterback to ever enter the NFL. Richardson's Relative Athletic Score (RAS) is a perfect 10 at quarterback... at running back... at wide receiver... at cornerback for goodness sake.
Expect Steichen to work a heavy dose of run options for Richardson early in the season (and his career) while he refines his passing.
The Colts take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at home on Sunday at 1 p.m. EST. The Jaguars had the 24th overall defense last season, but they were 12th against the run.
Richardson and the Colts will have their work cut out for them against the favorites in the AFC South, but 30 is as low as we're likely to see him ranked on this particular list all season.
