Antony Richardson looked very promising in the 2023 NFL season, with the Indianapolis Colts quarterback being compared to former Carolina Panthers QB, Cam Newton. The problem was that Richardson’s play style attracted a lot of contact, which led to him being injured before half-time in three of the four games he started last season. Richardson was then shut down for the season after needing shoulder surgery, and his stats make for interesting reading.
In 2023, Anthony Richardson threw for 577 yards, 3 TDs and 1 INT, rushing for 136 yards and 4 TDs. This works out at 73 fantasy points in standard formats, which is actually pretty good if you factor in how much time he missed. The shoulder injury and concussions are relevant concerns for fantasy players, but Richardson could be a real asset in 2024 and will likely be selected outside the top five QBs.
Richardson is well worth a risk in fantasy, particularly in the sixth round of drafts, and this will allow you to get a good receiving and running back corps in place first. You will, however, need to look at getting another QB in case Richardson has similar issues in the upcoming season.
What numbers to expect from Anthony Richardson in the 2024 NFL season?
This is a tricky one, as while Anthony Richardson looked very good in phases, especially in goalline situations, his 59.5% pass completion percentage was a concern. Factor in missed time, shoulder surgery and a willingness to dive forward and concerns are valid. That said, if he stays healthy Richardson could be a huge story in 2024 and he may have learned a lot while watching from the sidelines.
There will likely be improvements in the passing game and potentially a change in the Colts’ usage of Richardson in the running game. If he plays the whole season, it feels reasonable to expect 3,000 passing yards and 17 TDs from Richardson, as well as 650 yards and 12 TDs on the ground. Given his injury history, ensure you take another QB with running potential (albeit similar risk), such as Kyler Murray.
Anthony Richardson Injury Update
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler provided the following update on Antony Richardson in early May while speaking on SportsCenter:
“This is progressing really well. I’m told Richardson feels he’s full go at this point. He’s been throwing for a while now. He’s gradually grown to where he can throw full-time with minimal restrictions. The Colts could be deliberate. They could hold him out for OTAs, 11-man work, minicamp, but the feeling is he wants to get started.”
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