Colts rookie QB Anthony Richardson to start preseason opener

WESTFIELD, Ind. — Indianapolis Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson will be a starting XI in Saturday’s season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

Richardson, the fourth overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, continues to battle Gardner Minshew for the starting spot, but coach Shane Steichen hasn’t indicated that this decision will be a step towards the rookie in the Colts’ Week 1.

However, the Colts are keen to learn more about Richardson and see him in action.

“I just want to see where he stands,” said Steichen on Thursday. “Get him out of there – he did a good job. Let’s get him out of there with the boys and go from there.”

Steichen said he expects his starters to see about a quarter of the action in Buffalo.

Richardson, who only started one full college season in Florida, lacks more experience than most first-round picks the NFL has ever seen. But the Colts have taken an aggressive approach to introducing him to the league, with Richardson splitting first-team snaps evenly with Minshew in practice.

When asked about the opportunity, Richardson replied with a big smile.

“First NFL experience so I’m excited,” he said. “…I knew he was going to play anyway, so I wasn’t really concerned about starting. I knew I was going to get my reps but I’m looking forward to going out first.”

“It gives me an idea of ​​where I stand, so I’m definitely looking forward to playing another opponent.”

Richardson will be in a live contact situation for the first time since his nose job two weeks ago, but he has been fully participating in all drills since returning to the lineup on August 1.