The Indianapolis Colts have completed their preseason games, finishing with a victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
While the game started in Philadelphia’s favor, Anthony Richardson led the Colts to a touchdown drive, tying the game.
Richardson received significant criticism after this game, largely due to the “Fly, Eagles Fly” motion he made after this touchdown.
Oh snap. Anthony Richardson went ‘Fly Eagles Fly’ on the Eagles in Philly after leading a TD drive. 👀 pic.twitter.com/ovRTV75r5l
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 25, 2023
After the game, according to Around The NFL, Richardson commented on the situation, saying, “I hope nobody took it the wrong way. I was balling, having fun out there, and enjoying it.”
Colts rookie QB Anthony Richardson on doing “Fly, Eagles, fly” motion in Philadelphia: “I ran down there and I was just flapping my arms and having fun. I hope nobody took it the wrong way. I was just balling, having fun out there, and enjoying it.”https://t.co/mXaXzTPUkc pic.twitter.com/nPFEg0U3r4
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) August 25, 2023
While he may have enjoyed this celebration, Eagles fans did not feel the same way.
By mocking fans in this preseason appearance, Richardson could have made some enemies early on in his career.
He has been named the Colts’ starter, and this Thursday night game was the last real-time exposure he had until the regular season begins.
Richardson finished the game with 78 passing yards, completing just six of his 17 attempts.
He added 38 rushing yards on five carries, averaging 5.8 yards per attempt.
Richardson’s athleticism has been lauded, as his athletic metrics were some of the best in NFL history at the combine.
However, his arm talent leaves something to be desired, as many pundits are unsure of how he’ll perform in the league.
He has a tough road ahead of him, considering how difficult it has been for rookies to succeed in year one.
After a 4-12-1 record in 2022, the Colts will likely give Richardson plenty of wiggle room this year.
If he struggles early, they’re likely to keep rolling him out as their starter given his first-round draft capital.
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