Anthony Richardson is the favorite to win the Indianapolis Colts’ backup quarterback job after outplaying Riley Leonard through the preseason. The Colts have not formally announced their season-opening depth chart behind Daniel Jones, but Richardson finished his preseason outings completing 21 of 33 passes for 249 yards and an interception.
Anthony Richardson appears to have secured his hold on the backup quarterback role in Indianapolis as the team prepares for the regular season.
Preseason Finale Performance Against the Detroit Lions
Richardson opened the preseason finale under center for Indianapolis on Saturday, playing through the first quarter before handing over offensive duties to Leonard. Benefiting from improved pass protection from the offensive line, Richardson took advantage of a clean pocket — though he was sacked once — to finish the game completing 7 of 10 passes for 80 yards, as detailed by Colts Wire.
His performance included connecting with Keenan Allen on a crossing route that required a tight-window throw, and Richardson also layered a sideline pass to Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. He did, however, miss an open Deion Burks over the middle. Richardson would lead two field goal drives during his time on the field, the second of which was aided by a Sauce Gardner interception.
Richardson stated that he just wanted to go out there and operate the offense and be confident. I was out there with the starters, so I just wanted to go out there and showcase that I could manage the game and be out there and let it rip. I think I did that to a certain extent,
Richardson said, speaking via Abby Halpin of the team website.
Comparing Richardson and Leonard Across the Preseason
Beyond his passing totals, Richardson has rushed for 69 yards as well, and that ability to extend plays has been a differentiator for him.
| Quarterback | Preseason Completion Stats | Yards | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Richardson | 21-of-33 | 249 | 1 |
| Riley Leonard | 20-of-42 | 199 | 2 |
Leonard was 3-for-7 for 48 yards and an interception against the Lions. The Colts did not throw a touchdown pass in three preseason games. Richardson has flashed this summer, but he’s had his ups and downs as well, and we will see how Leonard responds, though Richardson’s preseason performance has largely been encouraging.
Contract Status and Expectations for the Upcoming Season
Anthony Richardson lost his starting job last year. It appears he has held onto the backup job this year as he enters a pivotal stretch of his career.
Richardson, the fourth overall pick in 2023, is entering the final year of his contract with the Indianapolis Colts.
Reflecting on his approach and standing within the team, Richardson shared his broader perspective on the locker room. I just want to do my best and put my best foot forward,
Richardson said, via Abby Halpin of the team website. I want everyone to win and everybody to reach their goals, dreams and aspirations that they’ve wanted since they were a little kid.
While the Colts have not announced who will enter the season as Daniel Jones’ backup, Richardson outplayed Riley Leonard in the preseason and positioned himself as the leading candidate to hold the role.
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