Throughout the pre-draft process, there have been plenty of comparisons to Cam Newton, Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson for Indianapolis Colts new quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Those comparisons are completely fair. Even Richardson himself said at the NFL combine that he sees himself as an amalgamation of Newton and Jackson, referring to himself as “Cam Jackson.” So it would have made sense if Richardson followed that path to be like one of his idols.
But when asked Friday about what jersey number he will wear for the Colts, Richardson said he will wear No. 5. His answer as to why couldn’t have been better.
“That was the first number I had playing football in Miami when I was little, little, little. Really small and I feel like that’s what set the foundation for me. I used to rock No. 2 because of Cam (Newton),” Richardson told the media. “I love No. 2, that was my number, but I don’t want to be known as the guy that wants to be like Cam anymore. I just want to be myself and I want to set the standard and the priorities for myself.”
Richardson could not have come off better in his introductory press conference. Despite being just 20 years old, the rookie quarterback exemplified how to perfectly walk the line between confidence and humility.
He knows that his physical gifts are rare and that they can lead him to heights few get to even dream of. He also understands the growth that must take place while embracing the grind and process that comes with being great.
So while those pre-orders for a No. 5 Colts jersey are skyrocketing, the fanbase should be even more excited that they have a quarterback representing their team who exudes a mentality and awareness far beyond his years.
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