Anthony Richardson Discusses Future at NFL Combine

Former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson participated in the NFL Combine Feb. 27 through March 5, and the 21-year-old’s stock just keeps climbing. Richardson’s freakish athleticism combined with his success in team interviews have garnered hype around the internet and in the NFL. He answered questions at the combine about his past, his potential and his goals as an NFL quarterback.

At the helm of Florida’s offense in the fall, Richardson had both highs and lows. The Gators opened the season against Utah, a top-10 team, and Richardson played like a Heisman candidate. Following Florida’s 29-26 victory, in which Richardson threw for 168 yards, ran for 106 yards and three touchdowns, he was the buzz of college football. Analysts, fans and coaches saw the insane athleticism and potential Richardson possessed and were excited to see his season pan out. However, things slowed down for Richardson and the Gators. They finished the regular season with a 6-6 record, and many fans pinned losses on Richardson. Against Kentucky, he completed only 14 of 35 passes, threw two interceptions and accumulated only 147 total yards. In the following week against a poor USF team, Richardson only threw 18 passes (he completed 10) and had two interceptions with no touchdowns, and the Gators scraped out an ugly 31-28 win. Despite the ups and downs, Richardson is proud of his time as a Gator.

Undoubtedly, Richardson’s 6’4 244-pound frame and heap of athletic ability gives him all the potential to be a great NFL quarterback, and that’s exactly what he plans on becoming. He sees himself amongst the greats, and other NFL teams may believe he can get there.

Record-breaking combine

The NFL announced that Richardson broke combine records for quarterbacks in the broad jump (10 feet, 9 inches) and vertical jump (40.5 inches), proving that Richardson has the athleticism to be a phenomenal quarterback. He also ran a 4.44 40-yard dash, which is stunning for weighing 244 pounds. Not only did he outperform all quarterbacks in athleticism, many believe he outperformed the entire field.

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Even though Richarson’s combine numbers were impressive, he knows that he still has plenty to work on if he wants to be a star.

Potential landing spots

Richardson’s potential has catapulted his draft stock. Not only is Richardson expected to be a first rounder, many mock drafts peg him in the top 10, with some even putting him first overall. Teams particularly in need of quarterback solutions, such as Indianapolis, Houston, Las Vegas and Atlanta, all have top 10 picks and may take a shot on Richardson. The Gainesville native has recognized this boom in popularity and is excited to work for whoever picks him up.

The 2023 NFL draft begins Thursday, April 27, and concludes Saturday, April 29. Currently, Chicago has the first pick, followed by Houston and Arizona, then the Colts and the Seahawks. However, there is a good chance that movement takes place. The Colts, who are still seeking a long-term QB, may trade for Chicago’s No. 1 pick. Expect to hear Richardson’s name often, as plenty of eyes will be on the QB’s rising stock in the month leading up to the draft.