Improvement on the practice field, specifically in the short passing areas, suggests the on-field product will be significantly better. In 11 starts last season, Richardson’s ability to execute the easy throws was lacking, leading to a disappointing 47.7% completion percentage.

The fallout -- Richardson's injuries, brief benching in 2024, and Jekyll-and-Hyde play on the field -- resulted in the Colts conjuring a quarterback competition this summer, as Richardson and free-agent addition Daniel Jones go toe to toe for the right to be the Colts' quarterback. It's got Ballard viewing in hindsight.

Shane Steichen offered some high praise for Colts' QB Anthony Richardson following the team's latest training camp practice.