INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Colts backup quarterback Anthony Richardson heard the roar of the Lucas Oil Stadium crowd when he entered the game during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s blowout victory against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Garbage time or not, hearing the reaction from the home fans reinforced to him that Indy is where he needs to be.

“It’s always amazing,” Richardson said. “I already know Indy loves me. They give me all the support and love that I need. I love being here. I love going out there and hearing them cheer for me. It makes me feel good; it lets me know that I’m doing something right so I can keep working hard and keep going.”

Colts coach Shane Steichen said Richardson is doing everything he’s asked to do behind the scenes. Steichen said the staff is still focused on Richardson’s growth and development, even if that doesn’t include playing with the first-team offense on Sundays.

“He’s progressing well, with everything: The meetings, the fundamentals and the details on the practice field and continuing to grow and develop in that area,” Steichen said. “He’s making great strides in that area and he’ll continue to do that.”

Most of Richardson’s reps in practice come as the scout team quarterback. He’s tasked with running the opposing team’s plays and getting the Colts first-team defense ready for what they might see. Heading into Sunday’s game against Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals, having a backup with Richardson’s running ability is a great way to prepare for Murray’s scrambling.

After losing a training camp battle to former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, the former No. 4 overall pick is taking his demotion in stride. Expressing his appreciation for Indy contradicts reports that he’s looking to get traded. Richardson said his focus is on using his practice reps to prepare and improve.

“I get to go out there, run around, throw passes and be out there with my teammates,” Richardson said of running the scout team. “Also, just look at it in a different light. Although I’m not playing and getting reps as a starter, I’m still going against a great defense. So, me looking at the scout team offense, how can I incorporate my offense into that play so I can get better?”

Richardson has to look no further than his neighbor in the Colts locker room, Jones, to see how a quarterback can go from backup back to starter. Richardson said Jones is always willing to help with any questions he has, and he’s studying Jones’ routine and how he prepares, so he’ll be ready if his number is called.

After getting released by the Giants, Jones said his time with the Minnesota Vikings and coach Kevin O’Connell helped him prepare for his second chance in Indy. Against the Raiders, Richardson was 1 for 2, completing a nine-yard pass – to himself – after it was deflected by a defender. Jones knows what it’s like to go from the face of a franchise to backup. Proper preparation is the first step toward returning to QB1. 

“Obviously you want to be on the field, you want to be playing, that’s the competitive side in you,” Jones said. “The time in Minnesota when I was able to watch Sam (Darnold) and watch the group prepare in meetings and do some scout team work was really valuable for me. I think you try to take advantage of whatever opportunity you have.”

Joel A. Erickson covers the Colts all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Colts Insider newsletter.