Colts rookie QB to have big role even if he's not a Week 1 starter?

Even if Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson doesn't win the starting job immediately, he could still have a vital role in their offense.

"Look for the Colts to lean into Richardson's running ability from day one, whether he's the starter or not," wrote Stephen Holder of ESPN. 

Colts head coach Shane Steichen relied on Jalen Hurts' mobility while serving as Eagles offensive coordinator from 2021 to 2022. Over the past two seasons, Hurts logged the most rushing TDs (23) among QBs. 

The HC may want to maximize Richardson's running ability as part of his development as an elite, dual-threat QB.

The fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft ran a 4.43 40-yard dash at the combine, and his athleticism has impressed teammates.

"It's just like a whole other element to an offense that you normally don't have to think about with more of a traditional QB," linebacker Zaire Franklin told reporters recently. 

To earn the starting job, Richardson must refine his skillset and become a more reliable passer.

"Consistency was always the biggest concern coming into the NFL Draft," wrote Holder. "And that has proved to be a fair assessment throughout spring practice as he works to perfect his mechanics." 

Richardson turned 21 in May, however, and only played in 22 games in three seasons at Florida, meaning it's not a surprise that he needs more time to develop. Richardson has indicated he wants to improve and fulfill lofty expectations. 

"For one, my position and the light that I'm in — I can't do the bare minimum," he recently said. "The team would not allow that. I wouldn't allow that for myself."

The Colts should be encouraged by the rookie's desire to keep growing.