Hello and welcome to the inaugural edition of the 2023 NFL Draft Focus. In this series, we will look at the incoming prospects hoping their names will be heard on draft night. Be sure to check often as we will produce content until the event’s start.
BACKGROUND
Anthony Richardson is a QB prospect out of Gainesville, Florida. He played for Eastside where he threw for 37 TDs and ran for 41 TDs. Rivals listed him as a four-star prospect and the sixth-best QB in his class. He committed to play for the University of Florida Gators.
COLLEGE CAREER
Anthony Richardson had a slow start to his career. He redshirted as a freshman and played in only a couple of games. As a redshirt freshman, he and Emory Jones battled it out for the starting QB spot. Emory, however, won it but Richardson played a few more games and started getting more reps.
2022-2023 COLLEGE CAREER
In his 3rd year, he and Emory battled it out again for the starting QB slot. Richardson had fully recovered from a knee procedure. Anthony won the spot and Emory decided to transfer out to Arizona State. As the starting QB for Florida, he was electrifying, showcasing his arm strength and running ability. He started his season with a big-time win over number 7 Utah where he ran for 106 yards and three TDs. His best game of the year came against number 11 Tennessee. He threw for 453 yards and two TDs and ran for 62 yards and two TDs.
STRENGTHS: Elite Physical Specimen
What makes him special is his physical tools which cannot be taught. Standing 6’4″ and 238 lbs, he’s one of the biggest people on the field. He has speed that will wow in the 40 yard dash and can throw a football 75 yards. It helps that the QB might be the fastest player on the field. A lot of Josh Allen can be seen in the pre-draft workout process.
WEAKNESSES: Limited Experience
Anthony Richardson only started one season at Florida. His performance showed areas where he can improve. First, the decision-making needs to improve. There were instances when he held the ball for too long or doesn’t figure out the information pre-snap. Even though he is electrifying, his form when throwing the ball can be inconsistent. He will need time to develop.
PLAYER COMPARISON: Cam Newton
TEAMS WHO COULD DRAFT HIM
Anthony Richardson is the draft’s most exciting player. After being mostly the fourth QB taken, a mock draft by CBS had him picked first by the Indianapolis Colts. This changed even in the gambling sites as his odds have drastically improved. A lot will depend on the pro day and draft combine where he can showcase his skills. Among the QBs, he has the biggest potential on the run. But, he still needs time to develop to be a more pro-QB in the NFL.
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