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The Jacksonville Jaguars made quite a splash during this year’s NFL draft, taking Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence with the first overall pick. But Lawrence wasn’t the only quarterback the Jaguars selected in this year’s draft. The team also picked up Florida QB Anthony Richardson in the first round, and he has been turning heads during training camp.
One person who has been impressed with Richardson is former Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew. After a recent practice, Minshew spoke highly of the rookie QB. “I’ve been really impressed with him,” Minshew said. “He’s a big dude, he can run, he’s got a great arm. I think he’s got a chance to be really special.”
Minshew was the Jaguars’ starting quarterback for much of the 2019 and 2020 seasons, but after the team finished with a disappointing 1-15 record last year, they decided to reboot their roster. That meant moving on from Minshew and bringing in Lawrence as their new franchise QB.
But even though Minshew isn’t the Jaguars’ starting quarterback anymore, he has been keeping a close eye on his former team and he likes what he sees from Richardson. “Even as an older guy, you see some of the young guys come in, and you’re like, ‘Man, that guy’s got it,'” Minshew said. “And I think that’s how he is. He’s got it.”
Richardson played in just four games for the Gators last season as a backup to Kyle Trask, but he made the most of his limited opportunities. He completed 12 of 21 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns, and he also rushed for 108 yards and two more scores. His combination of size (6-foot-4, 235 pounds) and athleticism has drawn comparisons to former NFL quarterback Cam Newton.
But as impressive as Richardson’s physical tools are, Minshew has been more impressed with the mental side of his game. “The biggest thing is his approach to the game,” Minshew said. “How he’s always learning, always asking questions, always trying to get better. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, and that’s going to serve him well.”
Minshew also had some advice for Richardson as he starts his NFL career. “The biggest thing is to just enjoy it,” he said. “It’s going to be a long road, there’s going to be highs and lows, but just enjoy the ride. Enjoy getting to play football every day, because there’s a lot of people who would give anything to be in your shoes.”
Richardson will likely start the season as the Jaguars’ third-string quarterback behind Lawrence and veteran backup C.J. Beathard. But his talent and potential have already caught the attention of his coaches and teammates. Head coach Urban Meyer has praised Richardson’s work ethic and athleticism, and Lawrence has also been impressed with what he’s seen from the rookie. “He’s a really talented guy,” Lawrence said. “I’m excited to see what he can do.”
The Jaguars have been in a rebuilding mode for several years now, and they’re hoping that Lawrence and the rest of their young talent can help turn the franchise around. Richardson figures to be a key part of that plan, even if his impact won’t be felt immediately.
But with Minshew and other veterans watching his development closely, Richardson has a chance to be a real success in the NFL. If he can continue to impress with his physical tools and his work ethic, he could be a hidden gem for the Jaguars in this year’s draft. For now, he’s just trying to soak up as much knowledge as possible and learn from the players around him.
And if Minshew’s assessment is any indication, Richardson has a bright future ahead of him. “He’s got all the tools,” Minshew said. “It’s just a matter of putting it all together and making it happen.”
