Richardson starts Colts in 2026 preseason opener against Patriots
Anthony Richardson completes 78 per cent of passes for 145 yards and a rushing touchdown, but turnovers mark his debut against New England.
Former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson started for the Indianapolis Colts in their 2026 preseason opener against the New England Patriots. Richardson, selected as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, played the entire first half of the contest, providing an extended look at his performance ahead of the regular season.
During his time on the field, Richardson completed 78 per cent of his passes for 145 yards, recording an 80.1 passer rating. He also contributed on the ground with 53 rushing yards and one touchdown, demonstrating the dual-threat capabilities that defined his profile as a highly touted draft prospect.
The performance was not without errors. Richardson threw an interception on the Colts' opening drive and fumbled the ball on a subsequent possession, halting another scoring opportunity for Indianapolis. These turnovers highlighted the inconsistencies that have accompanied his young NFL career alongside his athletic upside.
According to reports, Richardson received the start after falling down the Indianapolis depth chart. The opportunity allowed him to showcase his talent in a controlled environment, potentially influencing his standing within the organisation as the team evaluates its roster options.
Richardson’s future in Indianapolis remains uncertain as the preseason continues. He will have further opportunities to build on the positives from this opener while addressing the ball security issues that emerged during his first-half appearance.
