Anthony Richardson Slides Up Draft Boards at NFL Combine

Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson has become the talk of the town. His dazzling performance at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday has catapulted him to the top of draft boards. The former Gator put on a display of his athleticism, setting a modern combine record for quarterbacks with a 40 1/2-inch vertical jump, a broad jump of 10-foot-9, and running a 4.43-second 40-yard dash. Richardson’s vertical jump and broad jump broke the records for any quarterback at the combine since at least 2003.

Anthony Richardson is having himself a day.
4.44u on his first run. 😳 @GatorsFB
📺: #NFLCombine on @nflnetwork
📱: Stream on NFL+ pic.twitter.com/G1Uv9cyPst
— NFL (@NFL) March 4, 2023

Richardson Now Ranks High in Betting Projections

The 21-year-old quarterback’s incredible performance has resulted in a significant increase in his betting projections as a potential No. 1 pick, with Richardson now listed behind Alabama’s Bryce Young in the betting odds to be the first quarterback drafted. Richardson has moved up to second at +380, followed by Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud at +430, and Kentucky’s Will Levis as a long shot at +1100.

Richardson’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Richardson’s impressive athletic abilities are undeniable, and his arm talent has also been praised during the throwing drills at the combine. However, his completion percentage and games started in his college football career are concerns. He completed just 53.8 percent of his passes last season at Florida. He started just 13 games in his college football career, ranking near the bottom of all the quarterbacks in this year’s draft in both categories.

Richardson as a Potential Draft Pick for the Detroit Lions?

The Detroit Lions have expressed interest in drafting a quarterback, but it is unclear if their comments are just smoke for other teams or if it is true. Regardless, Richardson may be one of the QBs to consider at 6. However, the higher he is projected, the better the situation is for the Lions. They hope to have the most leverage for a trade back at number six or to hope that Jalen Carter or Will Anderson fall to them at 6 with another team trading up in front of them for “their quarterback.”

Anthony Richardson, a Star in the Making

Anthony Richardson’s impressive performance at the NFL combine has made him a betting favorite and a potential high draft pick for NFL teams. While his athleticism is undeniable, his accuracy and lack of experience may be a concern for some teams. However, Richardson’s potential as a franchise quarterback is apparent, and teams are undoubtedly taking notice of his raw talent. As the NFL draft approaches, it will be interesting to see where Richardson lands.