Mel Kiper Jr. calls Anthony Richardson the 'ultimate developmental quarterback'

Mel Kiper is a believer in Anthony Richardson. However, the ESPN draft guru thinks it’s going to take some time to adjust for the former Florida quarterback.

Earlier this week, Kiper released his first 2023 NFL Mock Draft — projecting Richardson to go No. 9 overall to the Carolina Panthers. Afterwards, Kiper dissected his selection during an appearance on NFL Live, believing the former Gators star to be up to the challenge of the NFL with some time to develop.

“Skill set, the talent’s there,” started Kiper. “That Utah game, he looked like the No. 1 pick overall. He’s doing everything. He ran for three touchdowns, ran for over 100 yards, they were an underdog in the game. He led them single-handedly to a victory, 70% completion percentage in that game, no interceptions. Next week against Kentucky? He’s at 40%, couple interceptions, and six carries for four yards. They frustrated him, they contained him, they shut him down. Some games he’s missing layups, easy throws, so the accuracy’s not there but the talent is in abundance. He’s big, he’s got a rocket arm, he can run like anybody, wants to be one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks, in terms of running. Wants his passing improved. He’s the ultimate developmental quarterback.

“I think he goes, still, in the top 10 to 15. I have him at Carolina right now.”

Alas, the talent is indisputable. Anthony Richardson was like watching someone’s custom Madden avatar carving up defenses at times in Gainesville. However, there also was some not-so-great highlights, but his potential remains through the roof.

Whether it the Carolina Panthers like Mel Kiper projected or a different franchise, some NFL team will take a chance on Anthony Richardson, and feel great about it. Time will tell who takes the leap of faith.

More on Anthony Richardson, 2023 NFL Draft

Anthony Richardson began his career at Florida in 2020 as the No. 14 quarterback and No. 190 overall player in the class according to On3 Consensus. He spent his first two seasons behind signal callers like Kyle Trask and Emory Jones on the depth chart, but took over the starting job under first-year head coach Billy Napier and made quite the splash this past season.

While his freshman season didn’t bring many opportunities, Richardson impressed during limited time his sophomore season, accumulating 529 passing yards and six passing touchdowns along with 401 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns on the season. 

A coaching change brought newfound opportunity to Florida for Anthony Richardson, and he repeatedly showed off his incredible athletic ability throughout the season. He didn’t disappoint his coaches nor scouts in attendance.

Now, he’s set up to be a premium selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, per Mel Kiper of ESPN.