Brief Introduction of Anthony Richardson
Anthony Richardson is an American professional football quarterback currently making his mark in the National Football League (NFL) for the Indianapolis Colts. Known for his exceptional dual-threat capabilities, blending a powerful throwing arm with remarkable athleticism and rushing prowess, Richardson quickly rose to prominence as a highly-touted prospect out of college. His dynamic playing style and significant potential have positioned him as one of the league’s intriguing young talents since being selected in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Anthony Richardson Overview
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anthony Dashawn Richardson Sr. |
| Date of Birth | May 22, 2002 |
| Age | 23 (as of the current date in 2025) |
| Birthplace | Miami, Florida, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 244 lbs (110 kg) |
| Profession | Professional American Football Player (Quarterback) |
| NFL Team | Indianapolis Colts |
| Draft Year | 2023 (4th overall pick) |
| College | University of Florida |
| Fiancée | Jada Richardson |
| Children | Anthony Richardson Jr. (son, born March 2024) |
| Parents | LaShawnda Cleare (mother), Will Richardson (father) |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Approximately $2.8 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Education of Anthony Richardson
Anthony Dashawn Richardson Sr. was born on May 22, 2002, in Miami, Florida. He later relocated and grew up in Gainesville, Florida. Richardson was primarily raised by his mother, LaShawnda Cleare, and also had a significant paternal figure in his uncle, Tanka Lane, who passed away when Richardson was in the sixth grade. His uncle Tanka introduced him to football at a young age, teaching him how to throw a football and fostering his early love for the game. His mother, LaShawnda, worked multiple jobs to support Anthony and his younger brother, Corey Carter, facing financial challenges but consistently providing for her sons and supporting Richardson’s dreams.
Richardson attended Loften High School in Gainesville, Florida, where he enrolled in the Professional Academies Magnet program, studying fire, EMS, and public safety. Despite his enrollment there, Loften High School did not have a football program, so Richardson played quarterback for Eastside High School’s football team. During his high school career, he amassed impressive statistics, including 4,633 passing yards with 37 passing touchdowns, and 1,633 rushing yards with 41 rushing touchdowns. He was an Elite 11 finalist in 2019 and was recognized as a four-star recruit, ranking as the No. 9 dual-threat quarterback in the class of 2020.
After a successful high school career, Richardson committed to play college football at the University of Florida. He enrolled in the Florida Gators program in 2019.
Anthony Richardson’s Career
College Career at Florida
Anthony Richardson began his collegiate career at the University of Florida in 2020, appearing in four games during his freshman year, where he completed one of two passes for 27 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He was able to redshirt his first year of collegiate eligibility. In 2021, as a redshirt freshman, Richardson served as the backup quarterback to Emory Jones but saw increased action, appearing in eight games and making his first collegiate start against Georgia. He displayed flashes of his dynamic talent, completing 38 of 66 passes for 529 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions, while also rushing for 401 yards and three touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the All-SEC Freshman Team.
The 2022 season marked Richardson’s first full year as the starting quarterback for the Gators under new head coach Billy Napier. He played in 12 games, completing 176 of 327 passes for 2,549 yards, 17 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Demonstrating his exceptional rushing ability, he also ran for 654 yards and nine touchdowns on 103 carries. A notable performance included leading a 29-26 upset victory over the seventh-ranked Utah Utes in the season’s first game, earning him SEC Offensive Player of the Week and Davey O’Brien Award Quarterback of the Week honors. Despite the team’s 6-6 record in his starts, Richardson’s physical gifts, including his 6-foot-4, 244-pound frame and 4.43-second 40-yard dash, made him a highly attractive dual-threat NFL prospect. Following the 2022 season, he announced his decision to enter the 2023 NFL Draft.
NFL Career with the Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Richardson was selected by the Indianapolis Colts as the fourth overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. His pre-draft performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he achieved a perfect Relative Athletic Score (RAS) and showcased exceptional athletic ability with a 4.43-second 40-yard dash and a 40.5-inch vertical jump, solidified his status as a top prospect. On July 24, 2023, Richardson signed a four-year, fully guaranteed contract with the Colts worth $33.99 million, including a $21.72 million signing bonus.
Prior to his rookie season, Richardson underwent nasal septum surgery to improve his breathing during training camp. On August 15, 2023, head coach Shane Steichen named Richardson the Colts’ starting quarterback. He made his NFL debut in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he threw his first touchdown pass and rushed for a touchdown. Throughout his rookie season, Richardson displayed his playmaking ability, scoring four rushing touchdowns and three passing touchdowns in less than four full games. He became the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to record four rushing touchdowns in his first three games and the first Colts quarterback to rush for a touchdown in three consecutive games. Unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short due to a concussion and a season-ending shoulder injury sustained in Week 5 against the Titans, for which he underwent surgery.
Richardson returned to full health for the start of the 2024 season, though injuries limited him to 11 starts. In those 11 starts, he completed 126 of 264 passes for 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, while also adding 499 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns on 86 carries. He continued to demonstrate his dual-threat prowess, including a performance against the New York Jets where he completed 20 of 30 passes for 272 yards and a touchdown, along with two rushing touchdowns, earning him the “Angry Run Sceptor” from Kyle Brandt of Good Morning Football for a particularly bruising run. In Week 11 against the Jets, he achieved a career-high 272 passing yards and a 106.5 passer rating. He also orchestrated a significant comeback in Week 13 against the New England Patriots, leading a 19-play, 80-yard touchdown drive.
Anthony Richardson Personal Life & Family
Anthony Richardson’s personal life reflects a strong foundation built on family support. He was raised primarily by his mother, LaShawnda Cleare, who made significant sacrifices to provide for him and his younger brother, Corey Carter. Anthony and Corey share a close bond, with Corey describing his older brother as a “father figure” and a significant role model. LaShawnda Cleare remarried in 2021 to Ferrell Cleare, who became Anthony’s stepfather.
Richardson is engaged to Jada Richardson, his high school sweetheart. The couple met while attending Eastside High School. Although they share the same last name, it is a coincidence, as they are not related. Anthony proposed to Jada in 2020. In February 2024, they announced their engagement and the exciting news that they were expecting their first child. Their son, Anthony Richardson Jr., was born in March 2024. Jada Richardson pursued a nursing degree at Florida A&M University and established a doula services business in 2022, providing physical and emotional support to pregnant women. While Anthony tends to keep his personal life private, Jada has shared updates about their relationship and family milestones on her social media. Becoming a father has motivated Anthony even further, describing it as a reason to “go harder” in his career.
Awards and Achievements of Anthony Richardson
Anthony Richardson’s career, both in college and the NFL, has been marked by several notable achievements and recognitions, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential.
Collegiate Honors:
- SEC Offensive Player of the Week: Awarded for his performance in Week 1 of 2022 against the Utah Utes, where he rushed for a career-high three touchdowns and led Florida to an upset victory.
- Davey O’Brien Award Quarterback of the Week: Also received for his Week 1 performance in 2022.
- All-SEC Freshman Team: Recognized for his impactful play during his 2021 redshirt freshman season.
- Maxwell Award Watch List: Named to this prestigious watch list in 2022, presented annually to the most outstanding player in college football.
- SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll: Acknowledged for his academic achievements in 2022.
NFL Achievements:
- 2023 NFL Draft, 4th Overall Pick: Selected as one of the top prospects in his draft class by the Indianapolis Colts.
- Perfect Relative Athletic Score (RAS): Achieved a perfect RAS score during the NFL Combine, a rare feat that places him among the most athletic quarterbacks in the event’s history.
- NFL Rookie Rushing Touchdown Record: Became the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to record four rushing touchdowns in his first three career games.
- First Colts Quarterback with Rushing TD in Three Consecutive Games: Achieved this franchise record in his rookie season.
- Angry Run Sceptor Winner: Awarded by Kyle Brandt of Good Morning Football for a powerful rushing touchdown against the New York Jets in 2024, demonstrating exceptional power and speed.
Anthony Richardson Net Worth and Income
Anthony Richardson’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $2.8 million as of 2025. This figure is primarily driven by his professional football career, particularly his substantial rookie contract with the Indianapolis Colts.
In 2023, Richardson signed a four-year, $33.99 million contract with the Colts, which was fully guaranteed. This contract included a significant signing bonus of $21.72 million. His average annual salary from this contract is $8,498,508. For 2025, his base salary is set at $1.03 million, complemented by a roster bonus of $2.81 million, and a workout bonus of $8,820, bringing his total cash earnings for the year to $3.84 million. His cap hit for 2025 is approximately $9.27 million.
Beyond his NFL salary, Richardson has also secured income from endorsement deals. During his college career, his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation was significant, with reports indicating he signed $1 million worth of NIL deals in 2022. His endorsement partners have included prominent brands like Gatorade, Champs Sports, Fanatics, KloutMachine, and L3 Campus. His partnership with Gatorade was particularly notable as he was the first Florida Gators athlete to secure an endorsement deal with the sports drink company. These endorsements contribute to his overall income and brand development. His total earnings since entering the NFL, including collegiate endorsements, are estimated to be around $25 million.
Legacy and Influence
Anthony Richardson, despite being early in his NFL career, is already carving out a legacy as a transformative talent known for his unparalleled athleticism at the quarterback position. His rare combination of size, speed, and arm strength has drawn comparisons to elite dual-threat quarterbacks, suggesting a potential to redefine the role in the modern NFL. His impact is not merely limited to his on-field performance; his journey from a challenging upbringing, supported by a dedicated mother and uncle, serves as an inspiration.
Richardson’s public image is one of a determined and resilient athlete. His commitment to his family is evident, particularly in his relationship with his younger brother, Corey, for whom he acts as a “father figure,” and his deep appreciation for his mother’s sacrifices. The birth of his son has also added another layer to his motivation, signaling a desire to work even harder for his family’s future. As he navigates the demanding landscape of professional sports, Richardson has the opportunity to inspire aspiring athletes with his work ethic and dedication. His role as a high-profile athlete also positions him to engage in social contributions and community involvement, further solidifying his positive influence off the field. As his career progresses, his continued development and success are poised to leave a lasting mark on the sport.
Interesting Facts about Anthony Richardson
- Anthony Richardson was born in Miami but grew up in Gainesville, Florida, where he eventually played college football for the University of Florida Gators.
- In high school, he attended the Professional Academies Magnet at Loften High School, studying fire, EMS, and public safety, with aspirations of becoming a firefighter if football didn’t work out.
- He achieved a perfect Relative Athletic Score (RAS) at the NFL Combine, a rare feat that places him among the most athletic quarterbacks in the event’s history.
- Richardson’s high school and college statistics demonstrate his remarkable dual-threat ability, with significant yards and touchdowns both passing and rushing.
- His mother, LaShawnda Cleare, once donated plasma to earn money to buy him a $280 Letterman jacket for a youth football banquet, a sacrifice that deeply impacted him.
- Anthony and his fiancée, Jada, share the same last name, Richardson, but it is purely coincidental, and they are not related.
- He became a father to his son, Anthony Richardson Jr., in March 2024, a milestone that has further fueled his motivation.
- As a rookie in the NFL, he quickly set records, including becoming the first rookie quarterback to rush for four touchdowns in his first three games.
- He has received the “Angry Run Sceptor” award from Kyle Brandt, recognizing his powerful and destructive rushing style.
Controversies
Anthony Richardson’s professional career has been relatively free of significant public controversies. His primary challenges have revolved around injuries, which notably impacted his rookie season in the NFL and limited his playing time in his second season. These setbacks, including a concussion and a season-ending shoulder injury in 2023, have been handled factually by his team and the media, focusing on his recovery and rehabilitation rather than any behavioral issues or disputes. While there was some discussion during his college recruitment about temporarily decommitting from the University of Florida, this was a minor event related to college choices and not a controversy reflecting negatively on his character. His public image remains largely positive, centered on his athletic potential, family values, and determination to succeed despite physical hurdles.
Social Media Presence
Anthony Richardson maintains an active presence on various social media platforms, connecting with fans and sharing updates about his career and personal life.
- Instagram: His official Instagram handle is commonly used to share personal moments, training updates, and glimpses into his life off the field. His fiancée, Jada Richardson, also shares updates on her Instagram (@jadaxlanay).
- Twitter (X): He uses Twitter (now X) to communicate with fans and for football-related content. His Twitter handle is often cited in sports media.
As of the information available, specific follower counts fluctuate, but he has a substantial following across these platforms, indicative of his growing popularity as an NFL quarterback. Jada Richardson has more than 5,000 followers on Instagram and nearly 5,000 friends on Facebook.
Final Words about Anthony Richardson
Anthony Richardson represents a new generation of NFL quarterbacks, combining extraordinary physical gifts with a compelling personal story of resilience and dedication. From his early life in Gainesville, Florida, where he excelled as a dual-threat high school quarterback, to his standout collegiate career at the University of Florida, Richardson consistently showcased the raw talent that made him a top NFL prospect. His selection as the fourth overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 underscored the high expectations placed upon him to lead an NFL franchise.
Despite early career challenges marked by injuries, Richardson has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, proving his ability to impact games significantly with both his powerful arm and explosive rushing. His commitment to overcoming these physical hurdles, coupled with the unwavering support of his fiancée, Jada, and the recent joy of becoming a father, underscores a strong personal foundation. As he continues to mature as a player and individual, Anthony Richardson’s legacy is poised to be defined not just by his athletic achievements but also by his character and his inspiring journey. The future holds immense potential for Richardson to solidify his position as one of the NFL’s premier talents and a role model both on and off the field.