Mel Kiper Jr. explains team trading down for Anthony Richardson, gives specific, unique advice

Anthony Richardson continues to trend to being an early first-round pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. ESPN’s Mel Kiper had the Seattle Seahawks selecting the Florida quarterback in his latest mock draft with the ninth overall pick. While a top-10 grade next to Richardson’s name might surprise some, the upside is too hard to ignore.

However, nobody is admitting that Richardson is a finished product. There are plenty of questions surrounding his game, especially this high up on the draft board. Kiper believes Richardson should get together will the same trainers Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen did to continue developing.

“Running threat supreme,” Kiper said. “Tremendous dual-threat. Passing needs to improve. The accuracy? He missed layups. Easy throw. He’s bouncing right, bouncing left. He needs to go to Josh Allen’s guy and get help in that area.

“I would go right to Josh and say ‘Who helped you? I want to work with those guys on a daily basis. Physically, athletically, toughness-wise — he’s a heck of a talent. He’s boom or bust but let me tell you what.”

The pick from Seattle’s point of view makes sense. Geno Smith is expected back next season after a breakout year with the Seahawks. He could be franchise tagged or given a long-term extension. Either way, Richardson will have the opportunity to develop behind Smith.

Seattle also owns a pick later in the first round at No. 20 overall. General manager John Schneider will still have the opportunity to upgrade his roster will a top-level pick. Add in the trade compensation from Carolina from the trade and it’s a win-win all around.

Watching Anthony Richardson film is driving Todd McShay crazy

Two of the most polarizing quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft both come from the SEC East. Richardson and Kentucky‘s Will Levis will spark debate for the next two months before the final Thursday in April. Seemingly nobody has a similar opinion on either but especially Richardson.

Even the best in the business are struggling to complete the evaluation. ESPN’s Todd McShay said watching Richardson’s film is driving him crazy. Only being a starter for Florida this past season, Richardson shows completely different things throughout his 12 games played.

“He’s absolutely the most interesting player in the draft,” McShay said. “I promise you it’s driving me crazy, watching Utah tape, then a disaster against Kentucky, he’s 6’4″, 234 pounds, rifle for an arm, mobile as can be, all the potential in the world, and a really good guy that you want to root for, that everyone in the building loves… A good guy, the most physically talented, but he’s not ready. He’s just not there yet.”