Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard came to the defense of Anthony Richardson Sr., as the former first-round draft pick prepares to begin the season as Daniel Jones' backup.
In a combative press conference, Ballard said that Richardson can benefit from spending the year studying the professional approach that Jones brings to the game.
"There's a lot of value in sitting behind a guy that's a professional and watching and learning and growing and working on the things you need to work on without the same pressure of being the starter," Ballard said, according to ESPN insider Stephen Holder.
Ballard made it clear in the press conference that the Colts do not plan to trade Richardson, nor do they believe his career will be labeled a bust, when all is said and done.
"It's easy to say, 'OK, he's done,'" Ballard said of Richardson. "I don't agree. I've said this numerous times -- I do not agree with that. I think overcoming challenges and obstacles along the way are good for anybody. I do. I'm proud of Anthony, of where he is at, how far he's come. He's come miles.
"It is tough on any young quarterback in this league, but for him to keep taking the growth steps that he has and to work so hard and then not get the goal for himself. All right, now to continue to do that, that's when we've got a chance to see real growth."
Ballard compared Jones to former NFL quarterback Alex Smith, who he worked with in his time with the Chiefs, calling both “ the ultimate professional.”
“Day in and day out, the team knew exactly what they were getting,” he said. “I feel like it’s kind of the same thing with (Jones).”
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