Former Florida Gators Standout Anthony Richardson Becomes Second 2023 First-Round QB to Be Benched
In an unusual move for a second-year NFL quarterback, former Florida Gators star Anthony Richardson has been benched by the Indianapolis Colts, making him the second first-round QB from the 2023 draft to lose his starting role. The Colts announced that 22-year-old Richardson will be replaced by 39-year-old Joe Flacco.
The decision follows Richardson’s unexpected self-removal during Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans, citing fatigue on a third-and-long play, which allowed Flacco to step in.
With only 10 starts under his belt, Richardson has shown his potential as a developing talent, though he came to the NFL with limited college experience—just 392 pass attempts at Florida. Despite this, the Colts have decided to sideline him instead of allowing him the time other franchises, like Buffalo with Josh Allen, have afforded to young quarterbacks to develop without immediate pressure.
Richardson will now watch as Flacco leads the team’s playoff push, which may offer him some learning opportunities but lacks the value of in-game experience. Although Richardson’s performance has had its challenges, film review suggests a lack of support on the field as well.
The Colts’ choice raises questions about Richardson’s future with the franchise and whether he might find greater success with another team. At just 22, Richardson’s potential remains, making this decision a questionable one for a team that doesn’t significantly boost its playoff prospects by starting Flacco. For Florida fans, this also means another Gators star is temporarily out of the NFL spotlight.
