The Indianapolis Colts made some major changes to the quarterback position this offseason. They were necessary adjustments as well as 2022 was the last straw. Since Andrew Luck announced his retirement ahead of the 2019 season, stopgaps and one-year stops by veterans have persisted, but that will stop this year.
Last season, Indianapolis finished 20th in passing in the league. So, the Colts revamped the position, signing Gardner Minshew in free agency. He comes over from the Philadelphia Eagles, following new head coach Shane Steichen from the City of Brotherly Love. Minshew will be in direct competition with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson.
There may not be two different quarterbacks, in appearance and skill set, in the NFL on the same roster. Minshew was a sixth-round pick in 2019 and stands 6’1”, using his football IQ and ingenuity to make up for lack of size and athleticism. Richardson was setting athleticism records during the pre-draft process and stands an imposing 6’4”, weighing 232 pounds.
Despite the vastly different styles of play each will bring to the field, both are making a valuable impact on the team according to wide receiver Alec Pierce. Pierce was a second-round pick of the Colts in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Cincinnati.
Pierce’s style of play fits well with Richardson, as he believes his strength as a wide receiver is creating big plays downfield. Richardson has a huge arm, as Pierce noted “the ball just flies off his hand” and that the Florida product is a “super-incredible athlete”.
Like many fans and people within the Colts’ organization, Pierce is looking forward to seeing what Richardson can do. At the same time, he appreciates what Minshew brings to the table even if he isn’t the long-term option as the starter.
“It’s been great having Gardner here. Being in the offense for the last year, he really understands what’s going on,” Pierce said. “He’s been a great leader for the offense and a guy that’s really rallied the team. I’m excited to play with him too.”
Minshew’s presence is an important one as he has in-depth knowledge of the offensive scheme Steichen is going to use. He has spent the last two seasons playing under him in Philadelphia and will help make the transition an easy one. Minshew is someone that his teammates can lean on for clarification on the offense but as a leader as well.
After how disastrous things were at quarterback last season, the Colts have to feel so much better about things heading into 2023. Whether it is Richardson or Minshew under center when things kick off in Week 1, ownership has to be confident the franchise is moving in the right direction.
