Anthony Richardson addresses his ability to play right away in the NFL

Anthony Richardson is confident he can contribute from Week 1 in the NFL. The former Florida quarterback is coming off of a historic performance in the NFL Combine last week, leading all quarterbacks in the 40-yard dash (4.43 seconds) and setting combine records for the position in the vertical jump (40.5 inches) and broad jump (10 feet, nine inches).

But while his athleticism is undeniable, there are still many who have questioned his readiness. Richardson responded to those critics Monday in an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, affirming his belief in himself to make an impact right away.

“I’ve been playing football all my life,” he said. “The game is only gonna get quick, faster, stronger and a little more mental. I feel like I’m able to adapt whenever my name is called. That’s when I feel like I’m ready. Nobody should question who I am as a person or who I am on the field because I’ve overcame a lot. I feel like I’m ready to play.”

Richardson’s athletic ability was on display the past two seasons with the Gators, as he rushed for 1,055 yards and 12 touchdowns. Last season in his lone year as the starter, the 6-foot-4, 244 pound quarterback threw for 2,549 yards, 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions. However, he completed just 53.8% of his passes — 12th among SEC quarterbacks — as Florida finished 6-7.

That has led to concern among many NFL teams on whether Anthony Richardson is ready to play. ESPN NFL Draft expert Todd McShay recently reported that some GMs see Richardson as a two or three-year project, and there’s fear he may never reach his ceiling.

Despite this, Richardson is still a projected first-round pick in many mock drafts. That includes McShay’s most recent mock, which has Richardson going fourth overall to the Las Vegas Raiders.

It seems as if Richardson certainly fits the mold of a “high-risk, high-reward” prospect, and it will be interesting to see where he falls. However, despite the many questions about him, he has maintained the belief in himself that he can become a star wherever he goes.

The 2023 NFL Draft is set to take place from Thursday, April 27 through Saturday, April 29 in Kansas City, Missouri.