Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson: ‘I feel like I’m ready’

As the Gators move forward with Emory Jones as their presumptive starting quarterback, Florida coach Dan Mullen has a clear message for Anthony Richardson and the rest of the backups.

“Just be ready, because you never know when your name is called, when your number is called,” Richardson said.

So is Richardson ready?

“Of course, definitely,” Richardson said Tuesday night.

If Jones moves into the starting role, Richardson will inherit the title as UF’s quarterback of the future. The Gainesville native was a four-star recruit and the nation’s No. 9 dual-threat quarterback in the 2020 class. His potential is intriguing enough that the Netflix show QB1: Beyond the Lights filmed him during his senior season. It hasn’t aired yet, and Richardson isn’t sure what the show’s status is.

Regardless, Richardson has added some plays to his highlight reel since then. He appeared in four games as a true freshman, rushing seven times for 61 yards and throwing a touchdown pass against Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl.

In the first spring of his college career, Richardson is working on improving his accuracy and reading defenses better.

“Everyone knows I can run,” Richardson said, “so I’m just trying to become more of a passer, and I’m just trying to understand defenses more so passing can become easier.”

Mullen said earlier this week that the Gators will use multiple quarterbacks in the early part of the season. Richardson believes he’ll be up to the challenge.

“Just because I know what I’m capable of doing,” Richardson said. “I like football a lot; I actually love it…So just learning what I’m learning now and what he’s teaching us, I feel like I’m ready.”