Analyst Reveals Wild NFL Comparison For Colts’ Anthony Richardson

Kenneth Teape

August 17, 2023

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen revealed a very bold decision that has been made for the team heading into the regular season. After one preseason game, they have opted to go with Anthony Richardson as their starting quarterback.

That was an announcement many people expected to come down during the regular season, not a month before the Colts kick off Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Anthony Richardson is a very raw prospect that will need some time to develop and hone his immense potential.

While every franchise has a different course of action for such development, the Colts have decided the best way for Anthony Richardson to learn is on the job. Steichen has had success working with Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts and there is optimism he can have the same positive impact on the former Gator.

While there are some people who are unsure if this is the right decision to make, one person who agrees with the decision is Colin Cowherd. During a recent episode of his show, The Herd, on FS1 and Fox Sports, Cowherd spoke about the decision to start Anthony Richardson right out of the gate.

He knows Anthony Richardson is a raw prospect, but likes the situation for him. The Colts have a good offensive line and a promising coaching staff. Cowherd also made a wild comparison for the Florida product, as he sees a blend of some incredible players in him.

“I get a little Josh Allen, a little Cam Newton and a little Big Ben,” Cowherd said in reference to what he sees in Richardson.

"I get a little Josh Allen, a little Cam Newton and a little Big Ben."

— @ColinCowherd on Colts starting Anthony Richardson week one pic.twitter.com/eRkKmtreOR
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) August 15, 2023

The combination of size and athleticism that Anthony Richardson has is unique. He is extremely raw, which will lead to some bumps in the road. But, that tantalizing potential is what will also provide some highlights on a weekly basis and flashes of what could be.

With no Super Bowl aspirations this season, it makes sense for the Colts to commit to Anthony Richardson early and let him work through his mistakes. There will be plenty of them, but as long as he and the Colts show progress as the season moves along, that is what will be most important.