Billy Napier addresses tempering expectations on Anthony Richardson with growing NFL Draft buzz

On3 imageby:Sam Gillenwater08/02/22

samdg_33

Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson is one of the most hyped players ahead of this college football season. His highlights and production during his limited snaps last year in Gainesville have the Gators excited about him under center. They also have NFL Draft scouts excited for him to prove himself as a prospect. Florida head coach Billy Napier wants to pull back the reins, though, on any pro conversations right now.

Napier discussed how he tries to quiet down the buzz around his QB at Florida’s fall camp. He says if Richardson wants to make it to the NFL, his standards as the Gator’s quarterback should be even higher than what scouts are wanting him to show.

“I think part of the job of a player like Anthony is really not allowing some of the noise to affect your process,” said Napier. “How you prepare, your character, your values, your expectations, your standards. I think when your standards and expectations are much higher than anyone on the outside could have for you, I think that gives you an opportunity.”

Richardson was a big play machine last season. His arm produced 529 yards and six touchdowns while his legs put up 401 yards and three more scores. Even so, Billy Napier says Richardson realizes he has a long way to go before he’s the player he wants to be. Sharing duties with Emory Jones and injuries have made Richardson a young, raw talent. Napier knows that he can only get better with more experience and knowledge.

“I think Anthony is very aware. That’s one of the things I really like about him. I think he has good awareness and good self awareness that he is an inexperienced payer that has potential but, also, that he can improve,” Napier said. “There’s lots to learn (and) there’s a certain level of responsibility (as quarterback). There’s just so much out there for the young man.”

Before Richardson even has an opportunity to be selected, a 12 game slate awaits him soon in Gainesville. If he shows a more experienced version of himself, everything will work out for him in Kansas City next spring. Until then, Billy Napier says his QB’s mind is right where it needs to be ahead of Florida’s September 3rd opener versus Utah.

“Anthony has lots of work to do here. I think he is fully aware and understands those things and has worked extremely hard. I think his focus is on the work and that’s exactly where it should be.”