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Brian Flores defends Anthony Richardson tapping himself out of game vs. Houston

Screen Shot 2024-05-28 at 9.09.17 AMby:Kaiden Smith•10/30/24•

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On Tuesday, reports surfaced that the Indianapolis Colts would be benching former first-round pick and second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson in favor of veteran signal-caller Joe Flacco. But Richardson was in the news before that decision was made, receiving backlash after subbing himself out for one play on Sunday against the Houston Texans due to being tired.

Countless members of the media chastised Richardson following his remarks and rationale behind tapping out for one play during a crucial 3rd & Goal in the third quarter down 10 points. But ahead of the Colts facing off against the Minnesota Vikings this weekend, Minnesota defensive coordinator Brian Flores actually defended Richardson for his decision.

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“I think Anthony is a young player still trying to find his way to a degree, but still makes a lot of plays,” Flores said. “I know there’s been a lot of talk about the play where he came out, but did you watch the play? The guy throws a 300-pounder off him, he runs around. I thought it was an incredible play. I got tired watching him.”

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Flores has likely been watching plenty of film of Richardson as he prepares for Minnesota’s matchup against the Colts. Giving the young quarterback some high praise despite not playing very well lately and being benched heading into Week 9.

“I think he’s a very, very talented young player. He’s a dangerous player, any snap he can break a couple tackles and go the distance. He’s fast, he’s got a huge arm. You want to talk about QB mobility, off script plays, that’s what he does,” Flores added. “Can keep his team in a game even when not every throw is perfect for him, he still has that explosive play ability. Which if you have two or three of those, you’re in the game.”

Richardson played in just four games last year as a rookie before going down with a season-ending injury. Battling injuries this season as well with as he’s failed to finish four games in his eight career starts. Completing just 44.4% of passes this season for 958 yards, four touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

It’s unknown if him tapping out for one play had any impact on the Colts’ decision to turn to Flacco. But with Indianapolis sitting at 4-4 and all their losses being by six points or less, it’s clear their staff is willing to do whatever it takes to get a slight edge. Making it fascinating to track what Richardson’s future looks like with the organization looks like with a 39-year-old veteran now taking over.