Anthony Richardson declares for the NFL Draft, will skip bowl game

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The hometown kid is leaving home. Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson has declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.

Richardson, a third-year sophomore with two years of eligibility remaining, is making the jump to the league after many draft analysts have him projected as a first-round pick.

“After much prayer, consideration, and speaking with my family I have decided to forgo the upcoming bowl game and my remaining years of college eligibility to enter the 2023 NFL Draft,” Richardson wrote. “As I take my next step in this journey, I will always be a Gator and strive to make Gator Nation proud.”

Richardson’s projection in the draft is volatile. He is the most physically gifted quarterback in the draft but most draftniks have him ranked behind Alabama’s Bryce Young, Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, and Kentucky’s Will Levis. Some had him behind Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker, whose senior season tragically ended prematurely with a torn ACL.

An injury could be another reason for Richardson to declare now. Following the FSU game admitted that he had played through an ankle injury all season.

“I’ve been battling that all year,” Richardson said of his ankle. “Tough game like that you have to finish out and play.”

He’s battled injuries throughout his career. His 2021 season ended with knee surgery, but he missed four other games that season with hamstring and knee injuries. Richardson was able to play in and start every game for Florida this season.

Anthony Richardson announcement

“It was a childhood dream of mine to become a collegiate student-athlete. That dream came true when Coach Mullen and his staff offered me the opportunity to become a student-athlete at the University of Florida. I will forever be grateful for him and his staff for believing in me and my potential.

“My time at the University of Florida has been filled with opportunity to connect with unique people. I will forever be thankful for those life-changing moments. Running out of the tunnel with my brothers in front of 90,000 fans is an experience I will never forget. The Swamp and Gator Nation is second to none.

“First and foremost, I thank God for always watching over my family and me. He has truly blessed us to be in this position. Thank you to Coach Napier and his staff for molding me into the player and person I am today. I am forever thankful for my teammates and the memories we created. I want to thank the athletic trainers, equipment managers, academic advisors, tutors, and support staff for showing me that everyone is essential to success. I am sending a vert special thank you to the city of Gainesville and everyone who has influenced me and demonstrated their love, care, and support over the years.

“Most importantly, I would like to thank my mother, LaShawnda Cleare, for her sacrifice and everything she has done for me through this journey. She continuously showed me that hard work pays off, and I will be forever grateful to her.”

Richardson’s first year as a starter

Richardson just completed his first year as the starter at Florida. The 21-year-old completed 51.3 percent of his pass attempts (176-327) for 2,549 yards and 17 touchdowns to nine interceptions. He added 654 rushing yards and nine additional touchdowns.