2023 NFL Team Draft Page

The Indianapolis Colts make good on their promise to take a quarterback. Anthony Richardson becomes the first signal caller drafted by the Colts in the first round since Andrew Luck's first overall selection in the 2012 draft.

Got him. #ForTheShoe pic.twitter.com/kv7gkeKToF

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) April 28, 2023

Richardson does not come in with the expectation of making the immediate impact that Luck did. Thought to be more of a project, he will likely be competing for the starting job with newly signed Gardner Minshew for the starting spot for the 2023 season while developing under head coach Shane Steichen, who just last season finished his development of Jalen Hurts, a quarterback of much the same build as Richardson.

If Richardson does indeed start this year, however, he will have all eyes on him to revive an offense that dipped in 2022 with the lackluster production of the offensive line and struggles from 2021 rushing leader Jonathan Taylor, who dealt with nagging injuries and ran for just 861 yards and four touchdowns. The offense was expected to make a jump after bringing in Matt Ryan, but the team and fanbase quickly learned better as Ryan showed his age. If Richardson is to see success early in his career, he will likely do it with his pure athleticism and running ability while his ability as a pocket passer matures. It should make for an exciting time in Indianapolis either way.

Indianapolis traded back with the Raiders and the Falcons, getting additional fourth and fifth-round picks before finally making its first selection of the second day of the draft. With the Anthony Richardson selection, GM Chris Ballard now focuses on helping the defense with a replacement for CB Stephon Gilmore, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in March. Brents has incredible size for the position with rare length to work against bigger receivers and press the line of scrimmage while also supporting in the run game.

Chris Ballard gets his newly drafted quarterback another weapon. To go along with 2021 rushing leader Jonathan Taylor and receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who has crossed 900 yards the last two seasons, Indianapolis brings in a true deep threat in Josh Downs. Exceptionally athletic to elude defenders, Downs is elite in tracking the ball all over the field and possesses reliable hands with smart route running to stretch the field and make explosive plays.