SB Nation    •   6 min read

Richardson is creating distance and positioning himself to be the Colts starter

WHAT'S THE STORY?

Indianapolis Colts Training Camp
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

Has Anthony Richardson figured it out? Is year three the year that he puts it all together and shows everyone that the Indianapolis Colts made the right call by drafting him? Assuming he can stay healthy, has he finally put all the pieces together to drive this offense effectively, efficiently, extraordinarily, exquisitely, and perhaps even epically? Ok, way too many “e” words, but in short, can Richardson move the needle for this offense and team as a whole to reach the next level?

If one were to

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look at the last few days of camp, it might lead them to believe that this could be the case. Glowing reports have been the standard after a rocky start with Richardson going 10-10 during drills one day to another solid performance the next. The hits kept coming during Thursday night’s primetime practice as Richardson continued to demonstrate his grasp of the playbook and ultimate control of the offense.

Color Stampede Blue’s own, Noah Compton, impressed, but he wasn’t alone. There is post after post about how good of a practice Richardson turned in Thursday. That is encouraging and great to see, but one practice could be a fluke. Watching Richardson turn in a string of successful outings at this point has many hoping this is a turning point, however. While some never truly work out, many players have break-out years. This could very well be that year for Richardson. It is year three professionally and year two practically when you add up all the time missed from injury. The sample size is still extremely small from which to judge. The talent is most certainly there. It has always been about putting it together.

Obviously, this could turn out to be overly optimistic and a rush to judgement, but it has to make Colts fans feel good. The goal for Anthony Richardson is not to be a perfect pocket passer. If that is what you want, you will always be disappointed in him. Of course, stellar quarterback play should be required, but that comes in many forms. Keeping him healthy is priority number one. After that, using his athleticism and watching him develop and improve his passing game is next. The athleticism will be there. Watching the development and progression is what should make you smile.

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