On Tuesday, the Indianapolis Colts reportedly decided that will not bode nicely for Anthony Richardson’s future with the franchise.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler shared the Colts’ plan to bench the second-year quarterback and begin Joe Flacco in Week 9 towards the Minnesota Vikings.
In a 23-20 Week 8 loss to the Houston Texans, Richardson accomplished 10-of-32 passes for 175 yards, one landing and one interception and posted a dreadful 30.3 QBR. Throughout his postgame news conference, Richardson admitted he subbed himself out for one play within the third quarter as a result of he was “drained.”
ESPN’s Stephen Holder added the Colts aren’t giving up on Richardson, however the transfer suggests they’ve misplaced confidence in him.
Flacco — a Tremendous Bowl champion — in all probability offers the Colts (4-4) a greater likelihood to make the playoffs. In 4 video games, the previous Baltimore Ravens starter has seven TD passes and one interception. Richardson, in the meantime, has 4 TD passes and 7 picks in six video games.
Some might disagree with the Colts’ selection, even when they win extra video games with Flacco.
Earlier than he was benched, ESPN’s Ben Solak felt the Colts ought to keep on with 22-year-old Richardson regardless of his struggles. In any other case, they might shatter his confidence.
“He has had far worse video games this season (just like the loss to the Packers) and bounced proper again with higher video games the next week,” wrote Solak. “If the Colts bail on him now, it might be probably the most perplexing and inexcusable abandonments of QB improvement that I can keep in mind.”
Richardson has distinctive arm power. He has accomplished a cross over 40 yards in three of six games. Maybe the 2023 No. 4 general choose simply wants extra time to develop.
Nevertheless, Richardson’s accuracy points might forestall him from turning into a constant starter. In his first two seasons, he has accomplished 50.2 p.c of his passes, nicely under the league common (65.3. percent).
The Colts might flip to Richardson once more, however they are not satisfied he’ll overcome the rising pains and grow to be the man.
