When the Indianapolis Colts drafted Anthony Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, it all seemed like a plan that could fall perfectly into place. Instead, what's transpired has been anything but that.
It's probably not going to get any better for Richardson, especially if this prediction from Bleacher Report's Moe Moton pans out. Moton predicted that Daniel Jones would end up re-signing with the Colts in the offseason. This wouldn't necessarily surprise anyone given how well Jones played before his season-ending injury, but it'd spell bad news for Richardson.
Here's what Moton said about Richardson:
"As a passer, Anthony Richardson, a 2023 first-rounder, has been an injury-prone disappointment, throwing for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions with a 50.6 percent completion rate. Although Jones has also struggled to stay healthy, he's put together a few solid seasons in seven years.
Unlikely to turn back to Richardson, the Colts will probably look to re-sign Jones, who may not command a $40-plus million contract given the timing of his injury. Look for Indianapolis to retain him with the hope that he can suit up for Week 1 of next season."
Colts prediction could be final chance for Anthony Richardson
What could work in Richardson's favor here is that, if Jones is re-signed and isn't able to start early in the season, there'd be a quarterback competition between Richardson and sixth-round pick Riley Leonard.
We saw what Leonard could do in the final game of the season after the Colts were already eliminated, and he played decently all things considered. But that was one game, so it's a small sample size.
Considering Richardson failed to seize the job away from Jones last summer, it wouldn't be crazy not to view him as a starting threat. That being said, Leonard is less experienced, and this could be a last-ditch effort for Richardson. Sometimes players are at their best when their backs are completely up against the wall. Maybe that'd be the case for the Colts' former first-round pick here.
The fact of the matter is that Richardson's time with the Colts is probably coming to an end altogether. But, if Jones comes back and can't begin the season under center, this could be the final chance for Richardson to prove to the Colts -- or to another organization -- that he's still capable of leading the charge for an offense. It'll be a big moment for him one way or another.