Talk about a Dead Horse.

by Eaazeho | 3 months ago | 2 Comments

Anthony Richardson Faces Growing Pains as Colts Enter 2025 Season

Indianapolis, IN — September 1, 2025

As the Indianapolis Colts prepare for the 2025 regular season, third-year quarterback Anthony Richardson finds himself at a crossroads. After two solid years of development, the pressure is mounting for Richardson to take the next step. However, his preseason performance has raised concerns about his readiness to fully step into a leadership role.

Richardson’s first outing in the 2025 preseason was a strong one, leading the Colts to a 46-9 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. He completed 11-of-18 passes for 123 yards, 3 touchdowns, and no interceptions, showing the poise and efficiency that many had hoped for. His ability to make deep throws and utilize his athleticism had fans excited about his potential heading into his third season.

But the following two games were a stark contrast. In Game 2, a 23-27 loss to the Chicago Bears, Richardson's performance was more inconsistent. He completed 10-of-16 passes for 136 yards and 1 touchdown, but his rhythm was off, and the offense struggled to put together sustained drives. Despite some solid throws, Richardson couldn’t capitalize on opportunities to close out the game.

It was Game 3, however, that raised the most concern. The Colts lost 21-16 to the Carolina Panthers, and Richardson’s performance was a big part of the reason why. Despite throwing for 241 yards on 21-of-32 attempts, he threw 3 interceptions, including two pick-sixes that sealed the Colts’ defeat. He also took 5 sacks, and his QB rating dropped to a concerning 49.

Richardson’s overall preseason stats now stand at 500 passing yards, 4 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions, with a completion rate of 52.1% (34-of-65). While his dual-threat ability remains a positive, with 108 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown, his inability to consistently execute in the passing game has raised doubts about whether he’s truly ready to lead the Colts into the regular season.

Head coach Brooks Granger remains hopeful but realistic about Richardson’s development. “Anthony’s got all the tools, but we’re still working through some things,” Granger said. “We’ve seen the good, and we’ve seen the bad. It’s about putting everything together and being consistent. We’re committed to helping him reach his potential.”

The Colts have backup quarterbacks Jimmy Garoppolo and rookie Clayton Hobert behind Richardson. Garoppolo, who has stepped up as a mentor to the young quarterback, has been invaluable in providing guidance. “Jimmy’s been through it all,” Richardson said. “He’s been helping me a lot with the mental side of the game and staying calm in tough situations.” Despite Garoppolo’s mentorship, questions remain about whether Richardson will be ready for Week 1. With the team facing a tough schedule in the AFC South, Granger will need to make a decision on whether to start Richardson or turn to Garoppolo for a steadier presence under center.

As the Colts approach the regular season, the spotlight is on Richardson to show that he’s ready to take the next step in his career. Indianapolis fans are hoping that, after two years of development, the raw talent that made Richardson a top pick will finally begin to translate into consistent, high-level play.