Analyst’s latest mock draft has AFC team trading up for Anthony Richardson
A historic performance by Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson at the NFL Scouting Combine has cemented his status as a top prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft.
ESPN analyst Todd McShay believes in the hype surrounding the dual-threat talent, placing Richardson in the top four of his latest mock draft.
In McShay’s mock, the Chicago Bears make two trades in the first round. A deal with Indianapolis moves Chicago back to No. 4, and the Colts select Alabama’s Bryce Young first overall. Upon receiving the fourth pick, McShay projects the Bears will trade it to the Las Vegas Raiders, who choose Richardson.
Richardson showcased his elite athleticism last week, breaking the modern Combine record for QBs with a 40.5-inch vertical jump. He also posted a broad jump of 10-foot-9, tying the highest mark by a Combine QB since at least 2003, and ran a 4.43-second 40-yard dash.
Despite the flags Richardson carries, McShay knows he’s an enticing selection with impressive arm strength and dynamic rushing abilities. During his college career, Richardson rushed for 1,116 yards and 12 touchdowns.
“The upside comes with risk, and I do think he might need more time to develop before taking over as an NFL starter,” McShay writes. “But if the 6-foot-4, 244-pound signal-caller can put it all together, sign me up for big-time throws to Davante Adams and highlight-reel runs on Sundays in Vegas.”
After cutting ties with their all-time leading passer Derek Carr earlier this offseason, the Raiders (6-11) seek a new signal-caller. As each AFC West rival has a Pro Bowl-caliber starting quarterback, if Las Vegas hopes to make the playoffs, it must quickly find a quality replacement.
Several QBs, including Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers, New England’s Mac Jones, and impending free-agent Jimmy Garoppolo, have been linked to Las Vegas this offseason.
However, there is no guarantee that the Raiders will acquire these options. The Jets appear to be the leading suitor for Rodgers, and Jones is unlikely to be available as he enters his third season. Garoppolo might be the most realistic choice of the three and has playoff experience, but his shortcomings are well-known.
Las Vegas should sign a QB comparable to Garoppolo for the short term and draft its future starter in April. Should Richardson be the pick, sitting a year to develop might benefit him in the long run.
Last season, Richardson posted the 30th-highest QBR in the country (71.2), completing 53.8% of his passes and throwing 17 touchdowns. If he could improve as a passer, he has the potential to become a game-changer at the pro level.
The NFL Draft begins on April 27 in Kansas City.
