Rapoport: Irsay Played Role In Richardson Return To QB1

Source: Kara Durrette / Getty

The Colts did an about face on Anthony Richardson two weeks after benching him as Shane Steichen announced the fourth overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft would move back into the starting role over Joe Flacco.  The move came less than 48 hours of Steichen saying he was sticking with Joe Flacco as the starter.  So why the sudden change?  Steichen said he spoke to both Chris Ballard and Jim Irsay about it and the decision was ultimately his.  Just like with Richardson’s original benching, there seemed to be more beneath the surface.

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On Thursday’s show, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport joined to discuss what he had heard regarding the Anthony Richardson drama and how much say owner Jim Irsay had when it came to the most recent turn of events.

I believe Jim Irsay is involved.  I believe Jim Irsay is very involved.  Remember, the first time we learned Anthony Richardson was going to be the starter was when Jim Irsay said it.  So I think he’s definitely involved and definitely on board. – Ian Rapoport on Jim Irsay’s impact on going back to Anthony Richardson

Rapoport also discussed Chris Ballard’s longevity and job status if the Colts fail to make the postseason once again, the NFL Scouting Combine sticking in Indianapolis through at least 2026, the bad public messaging the Colts had in the Richardson decision and a whole lot more.

The record is what it is.  It’s not something all GMs would survive.  It’s been a lot of years, it hasn’t been a lot of playoff wins. And if the quarterback turns out to be not good enough and there’s another year of not making the playoffs, most teams would make changes. – Ian Rapoport on Chris Ballard’s job status

For the full interview with Ian Rapoport, click the link below!