Panthers coach Frank Reich on Florida QB Anthony Richardson: 'He's an exciting player'

The Carolina Panthers recently gave up a king’s ransom to the Chicago Bears in exchange for the No. 1 pick and complete freedom to draft whoever they want as their next franchise quarterback. Other QB-needy teams near the top of the draft are now at the mercy of the Panthers. Only Carolina truly gets to evaluate each guy and select the best one. Because teams drafting third or fifth or wherever will have to work with what Carolina and other potential teams ahead of them do.

So, Carolina is doing their homework on all the top guys, making sure they choose correctly at No. 1 after giving up such a haul. As part of that process, new head coach Frank Reich is also looking at each QB and was asked this week about one in particular: Anthony Richardson.

Reich had nothing but praise for the Florida Gator:

“Yeah, he’s an exciting player. Even before the combine, you know, watching his tape, there are plays and throws all over the tape that scream top pick. And that’s a credit to him. I think he has upper body mechanics that are really solid. Obviously, his completion percentage is lower than you want at this level. But I don’t get too discouraged with things like that.”

A lot of love from the head coach of the team picking first overall towards Anthony Richardson. A betting man would tell you not to fall too much for Reich’s comments here, since he’s unlikely to say much negative about any of the quarterbacks or tip his hat one way or the other yet on who Carolina will select.

Coach Reich and Carolina staff members were just in Lexington over the weekend to attend Will Levis‘ Pro Day at Kentucky. And obviously the Panthers have had discussions with CJ Stroud and Bryce Young as well. So they’re doing their homework and making sure to give a thorough look at all four of the top options. Draft folks seem to believe Stroud or Young will ultimately go first with the other very likely going No. 2. Beyond that is anyone’s guess.

Some analysts and scouts love Levis, others are totally turned off from the former Wildcat. Likewise with a Richardson. Some people really believe in his frame and future given his physical traits and flashes of brilliance. Others, similar to Levis detractors, aren’t sold on pure potential and would have rather seen Richardson either produce more consistently or return to school for an extra season.

A lot left up in the air as we approach draft night.