Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has the potential to solve the franchise’s revolving-door quarterback situation if he can stay healthy and put everything together. Through the first three games of the 2024 NFL season, he has been one of the most boom-or-bust quarterbacks in the NFL, mixing in eye-popping plays that show off his talent, while also struggling with turnovers and accuracy on some of his passes.
Nothing highlights that boom-or-bust nature in his play more than this stat from CBS Sports.
Honestly, both numbers are pretty staggering, and especially when combined together.
Completing more than 66.7% of your passes over 50 yards downfield is an incredible number, no matter how small of a sample size it is. Those are the hardest passes to complete, and some of Richardson’s downfield passes have been highlight reel plays.
It is equally wild that he is only 62.5% on passes behind the line of scrimmage because those should, in theory, be the easiest passes that a quarterback is attempting.
Overall, his 8.0 yards per pass attempt is one of the highest marks in the league (sixth best to be exact) indicating his big play potential in the passing game. Conversely, his 49.3% completion percentage is the worst in the NFL, while his six interceptions are also the most in the league.
Richardson and the Colts play the Pittsburgh Steelers and their top-ranked defense on Sunday. It will be a significant test for him and their offense early in the season.