On Wednesday, Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen was asked about what he’s seen this season from quarterback Anthony Richardson in his backup role.
With the Colts up big over the Las Vegas Raiders this past Sunday, Richardson took over at quarterback in the fourth quarter. The Colts would mostly run the ball, but Richardson completed 1-of-2 passes for nine yards.
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Richardson also appeared in the Colts’ Week 4 blowout victory against Tennessee.
“He’s progressing well,” Steichen said via Kevin Bowen of 107.5 The Fan. With everything, right, the meetings, the fundamentals and the details on the practice field, to continue to grow and develop in that area. He’s made great strides in those areas. And just needs to continue to do that….He’s doing a great job running the (scout) team, giving the defense great looks. Just continue to study and prepare like crazy.”
When Steichen made the decision in late August that Daniel Jones would be the starter, he noted the strides that Richardson had made this summer, but also that more development was needed. Ultimately, Richardson still wasn’t consistent enough overall.
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When GM Chris Ballard spoke to the media before the season, he would echo those sentiments, saying that Richardson has “come miles” since being drafted.
At that time, Ballard added that Richardson’s opportunity to develop without all eyes being on him weekly could be good for his growth.
The Colts have made it clear publicly that they do not intend to trade Richardson. However, realistically, the path forward for Richardson to be the team’s long-term option at quarterback doesn’t much exist anymore with the way Jones is playing.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts’ Shane Steichen evaluates progress of QB Anthony Richardson