Anthony Richardson has ‘superstar potential, talent-wise,’ Dan Orlovsky claims with scouts still seesawing on Gators QB
Anthony Richardson is one of several highly rated quarterback prospects in the 2023 NFL draft. While his list of accomplishments and achievements with the Florida Gators may not be as extensive as some of the other options at the position, he possesses a dynamic skillset that has many around the league intrigued.
His dual-threat approach seems to fit the modern style of football, although his statistics don't necessarily jump off the page. Many NFL analysts have been split in their projections of what Richardson could become as a pro quarterback. Some see him as a future star, while others think he has a ton of bust potential.
On the "Pat McAfee Show," analyst Dan Orlovsky shared his own thoughts on the polarizing prospect:
"He's a top 10 talent. His talent is off the charts. And I know people sit there and go, 'Well, look at him as a pocket passer.' Not trying to be disrespectful, but go watch what he was throwing to at Florida last year. Their No. 1 receiver was their transfer from Arizona State. They didn't have guys on the outside. Their talent on offense on the perimeter was so subpar.
"I think he's super-naturally talented. Everything you hear about him, 'Great dude, works his tail off, super smart.' Now, is he ready to play? No, but he has got superstar potential, talent-wise. This kid has athleticism that will allow him to survive, that if he's grown the right way, because he needs to get so much better mechanically in the pocket, but he can. Dude, he's got superstar potential."
Orlovsky is clearly optimistic about Richardson's outlook in the draft. He even drew a comparison with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts for their similar style of play. Hurts just helped the Eagles make a Super Bowl appearance and was a candidate to win the MVP award. So, if that's what Richardson can become, many NFL teams will be interested in him.
How high will Anthony Richardson be selected in the 2023 NFL draft?
Anthony Richardson is one of four quarterbacks who are projected to potentially be selected within the top 10 picks of the 2023 NFL draft. He joins Bryce Young of the Alabama Crimson Tide, C.J. Stroud of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Will Levis of the Kentucky Wildcats.
The order in which the top four quarterbacks are selected will likely come down to the preference of the team that's on the clock. Young and Stroud are projected to go slightly higher than Levis and Richardson, but that can surely change when draft day arrives. Either way, it's unlikely Richardson will fall further than the top half of the first round.