Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson looked like something special at the onset of the 2023 season. Too bad he played in only four games due to injuries.

Ultimately, a shoulder issue that required surgery led to last year’s No. 4 overall draft pick missing most of his rookie campaign.

In Shane Steichen’s first season, his squad overachieved by winning nine games and nearly claiming the AFC South. He proved legitimate serving in a dual capacity as head coach and offensive play-caller.

The Colts roster is solid all around and capable of competing every week. In fact, all 22 of the team’s projected starters return this year. A healthy and committed Jonathan Taylor and the second-round selection of wide receiver Adonai Mitchell will certainly help.

Richardson is the key, though. His growth will be critical in whether Indianapolis can overtake the rival Houston Texans.

What’s special about the 21-year-old is his elite combination of size, athleticism and raw arm talent. He was considered a project coming into the professional ranks due to starting only one season at the collegiate level and a low completion percentage.

Even in a limited sample size in the pros, though, Richardson showed he can work from the pocket and be comfortable ripping throws.

Furthermore, the injury may have somewhat been beneficial because it gave the Florida product time to watch and learn.

“It’s big,” Steichen said of his quarterback in April. “It’s not new for him. He’s heard the terminology. Going through those meetings right now, going through it, quizzing and he’s all over it. We’ve got a good foundation going into this offseason and going into the season. So, it’s been good.”

As long as Richardson learns to protect himself and not take the big hits he did a season ago, he has the talent to be truly special, particularly with Steichen scheming everything around the quarterback’s skill set.

“He’s everything you want in a quarterback,” Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson told reporters. “Seeing him work around the building and working in silence and then going out there and being a leader. He’s been very on the details and he’s looking good.”