2023 NFL Draft Profile: Anthony Richardson

No player is more valuable in football than a star quarterback, and it's hard to picture one with more upside in the 2023 NFL Draft than Anthony Richardson. He doesn't have a ton of game tape or sustained success on the field, but a quick look at his tape makes it clear why he can be special. A team willing to gamble on Richardson's physical tools could find a multi-time Pro Bowler — or major bust.

Anthony Richardson Draft Profile

College: Florida
Age: 21
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 240

Strengths

Richardson's traits are through the roof, and his highlight reel is as impressive as any quarterback in this draft class. Physically, he's reminiscent of Josh Allen, with the build of a defensive end and the willingness to use it when needed. 

Possessing outstanding arm talent, he is special at times when extending plays. He'll keep his eyes up after escaping the pocket and has a good feel for finding the open target when the play enters improvisation mode. In structure, he unlocks every throw an offensive play designer can conjure, with the ability to fire fastballs through tight windows at the deep-intermediate level as well as threatening the top of the defense. 

He's a force with his legs; defenses will have to account for him on designed runs. He has the ability to run through or run away from defenders and is especially dangerous on scrambles.

Weaknesses

He's a one-year starter who's exceedingly raw — far more raw than the other risk/reward quarterbacks to come out over the past decade, including Allen, Jordan Love and fellow 2023 prospect Will Levis. 

Florida brought Richardson along slowly last season, with the Gators relying heavily on the quick game early before trying to expand the offense as the season went on. It didn't quite click, and Richardson often looked erratic playing in-structure, missing a lot of throws. He is very likely a multiyear project, an especially tricky proposition since he'll be best served by getting as many live reps as possible.

Summary

The package of physical traits is undeniable — in a way, Richardson is a supersized version of Malik Willis (a Day 2 pick for the Titans last season). There's monster upside if he gets with the right coach and in the right development plan, but the floor is a position switch.

Final Grade: 1st/2nd Round

(This profile is one of more than 200 featured in the Athlon Sports 2023 NFL Draft Guide. With in-depth scouting reports on the top prospects, position rankings, and more, no source will have you better prepared for draft day. Purchase a copy online today, download the digital edition for instant access, or look for it on newsstands everywhere.)