In the preseason finale between the Indianapolis Colts and the Philadelphia Eagles, rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson showcased both potential and the need for further improvement. The Colts emerged victorious with a score of 27-13.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick out of Florida, was named the starter after the preseason opener. He displayed flashes of brilliance, completing 6 of 17 passes for 78 yards and rushing five times for 38 yards in the first half. The 6-foot-4 quarterback has high expectations in Indianapolis, with new coach Shane Steichen aiming to replicate his success with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia.
Steichen praised Richardson’s performance, acknowledging both the positive aspects and the areas requiring refinement. One notable highlight from Richardson’s play was a well-executed throw to Kylen Granson for a 17-yard gain. Despite some missed throws and high passes, Richardson remains optimistic and focused on building chemistry with his team.
The celebration following a touchdown, in which Richardson flapped his arms like a bird, drew mixed reactions from Eagles fans. Richardson clarified that his intent was to have fun and not to offend anyone.
Defending NFC champion Philadelphia did not field their starting quarterback Jalen Hurts or any offensive or defensive starters. Instead, Marcus Mariota, the Eagles’ backup quarterback, played one series and completed 1 of 2 passes for 21 yards.
Although the Eagles had hoped that Mariota would be a valuable backup, he struggled throughout the preseason. In his limited playing time, Mariota threw high on his first pass but quickly recovered by completing a 21-yard pass to Deon Cain. Mariota’s preseason performance included 17 completions out of 30 attempts for 164 yards, one interception, and four sacks.
Rookie sixth-round pick Tanner McKee, the likely No. 3 quarterback for Philadelphia, completed 19 of 34 passes for 158 yards.
As for the Eagles, most of the players who participated in the game are not expected to be part of the final 53-man roster, which will be determined by Tuesday. Coach Nick Sirianni expressed empathy for the players who will receive the news of being cut, acknowledging their contributions to the team’s culture.
The Colts were still without star running back Jonathan Taylor, who is involved in a contract dispute with the club. Taylor, the 2021 rushing champion, underwent offseason ankle surgery and has not participated in training camp. The Colts’ regular season opener will take place at home against Jacksonville on September 10.
Eagles kicker Jake Elliott made impressive field goals of 59 and 52 yards during the first half.
Before the game, the Eagles signed backup offensive lineman Fred Johnson to a two-year contract. Johnson, standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 326 pounds, has previously played for the Bengals and Buccaneers.
In terms of injuries, Colts offensive lineman Danny Pinter had to be carted off the field with a left ankle injury on the first play of the second half. Linebacker Shaquille Leonard, dealing with a concussion, did not travel with the team to Philadelphia.
Looking ahead, the Colts will open their regular season at home against Jacksonville on September 10, while the Eagles will kick off their NFC title defense against New England on the same day.
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