Is Anthony Richardson a Good Fantasy Football Pick? ESPN Drops Analysis

Much like Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and New York Jets’ Aaron Rodgers, fantasy football managers are warned against drafting Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. With his performance in the past season as a basis, it looks like ESPN has other options for this position when the fantasy drafts start.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard anticipates a mix of highs and lows for Richardson in his second year. As he becomes more familiar with Shane Steichen’s offensive system, Ballard acknowledges that the young quarterback will likely experience some roller-coaster moments.

Having started only four games as a rookie, Richardson displayed flashes of his potential, showcasing a strong arm and impressive rushing ability. However, his inexperience means he will face growing pains as he adjusts to the demands of the NFL. Ballard believes that with more game reps, Richardson will improve his decision-making and ability to protect himself on the field.

The Colts’ success in 2024 hinges significantly on Richardson’s development and health. His preseason performances have been a mixed bag, highlighting both his talent and the need for refinement. Ballard emphasizes that as Richardson gains more experience, he will better navigate the complexities of the game.

ESPN Fantasy Football Analysis Includes Indianapolis Colts’ Anthony Richardson in Do Not Draft List

With the new season set to start soon, fantasy managers will soon pick their respective rosters. According to an analysis by Erick Karabell for ESPN, there’s a good reason to steer clear of Richardson in the draft.

“The Colts’ Anthony Richardson is the most polarizing option at the position, after the four-game flash to his career last season left fantasy managers yearning for more. Richardson is an elite runner and boasts good size (6-foot-4, 244 pounds), but he missed Week 3 with a concussion and then a shoulder injury ended his season before Halloween.

Future health is the first issue, but positional depth affords fantasy managers reasonable fill-ins if any quarterback misses time. Still, it feels premature reaching for Richardson in the first five rounds, when more proven options go so much later (Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray, etc.),” Karabell wrote.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ESPN (@espn)

While he has shown promise, a different analysis highlighted Richardson’s troubling accuracy, noting a 54% completion rate in college and under 50% on non-screen passes. Additionally, over 21% of his throws last season were deemed bad throws, raising concerns about his development and overall impact for fantasy football managers.

It remains to be seen whether Richardson can turn this narrative around during the first few week of NFL action soon. In any case, fantasy football managers must think hard on who to pick so they won’t suffer the consequences later in the season.

For More Of My Content

For More Of My Content Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22. You may also reach out to me personally at kitguinhawa@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here!