Colts Sign QB Anthony Richardson, Two Others to Rookie Deals

The Indianapolis Colts came to terms with the rest of their 2023 rookie class on Monday as Anthony Richardson, JuJu Brents, and Blake Freeland signed their rookie deals.

Deadlines tend to spur action.

For a few rookies around the NFL, the deadline to get their contracts signed without missing any time is quickly approaching as training camps begin around the league. The Indianapolis Colts had three such rookies who had yet to sign their deals as of Monday morning. Those rookies were quarterback Anthony Richardson, cornerback JuJu Brents, and offensive tackle Blake Freeland.

As the Colts rookies report for training camp tomorrow, those three are now under contract. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that Richardson and the Colts have agreed to his rookie deal. The Colts also announced on Monday afternoon that Brents and Freeland had both agreed to their deals. All contracts are for four years, with the Colts holding a fifth-year option on Richardson due to him being a first-round pick.

The #Colts and No. 4 overall pick QB Anthony Richardson have agreed to terms on his 4-year, $33.99M fully guaranteed deal that includes a $21.72M signing bonus paid 100% upfront, per me and @TomPelissero. Deal done by agent @djackson_legacy. pic.twitter.com/CihRdM3YQO

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 24, 2023

Richardson was the No.4 pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Florida. The uber-athletic quarterback started 13 games for the Gators, finishing with 3,105 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. He also ran for 1,116 yards and 12 touchdowns as a true dual-threat under center.

According to Rapoport, Richardson's deal is worth $33.99 million and is fully guaranteed. His $21.72 million signing bonus was paid 100% upfront at the time of signing.

"For one, I just want to thank God," Richardson said when he met the media in Indy. "I want to thank the Irsay family, Chris Ballard, Coach (Shane) Steichen, Colts Nation for believing in me first off and foremost. I definitely appreciate it and I’m excited to be here. I can’t wait to help this franchise. I can’t wait to impact the city. Truly excited to be here and I’m definitely thankful. I’m Anthony Richardson, and that’s that.”

The hype surrounding Richardson in Indianapolis is immense as the franchise looks for the answer at the most important position in football. Richardson is arguably the most athletic quarterback prospect in NFL history and is exactly the type of quarterback needed for the modern NFL. While still raw in some areas, Richardson has shown the maturity and work ethic necessary to attack the position, and his potential is sky-high.

We have signed CB JuJu Brents and T Blake Freeland.

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) July 24, 2023

Brents was the No.44 pick in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Kansas State. The Indianapolis native tallied 111 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, six interceptions, 16 pass deflections, and a forced fumble throughout his four-year college career. He earned First Team All-Big 12 honors his senior season.

"You couldn’t write a better story than this," Brents said after he was drafted. "First and foremost man, just give my thanks to God. I feel like this is nothing but him, just being able to have this opportunity to play in my hometown. Being a Colts fan my whole life, growing up watching. Peyton Manning was my favorite player growing up with Bob Sanders. Now, just being able to put on that same Horseshoe man, it’s nothing short of a blessing."

Brents will be expected to contribute right away on the Colts' defense. With the departures of Stephon Gilmore, Brandon Facyson, and Isaiah Rodgers Sr. from the cornerback room, Brents will likely be a starter on the outside. The 6'3", 198-pound cornerback will need to be ready for the challenge as he begins his career in a Gus Bradley defense tailored to his strengths.

Freeland was the No.106 pick in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of BYU. A former high school quarterback, Freeland made the switch to the offensive line as a freshman for the Cougars. He started 41-of-44 games in his college career and was a Third Team All-American in 2022.

“It’s a dream come true," Freeland said in April. "I wasn’t expecting a call from the Colts but I’m freaking pumped about it. Ready to get going, ready to get working. As far as my o-line development, I feel like it’s been well, and I’m planning to continue and develop and get as good as I can. Just become the best offensive lineman I can be.”

Freeland impressed coaches during spring OTAs and is expected to be the Colts' swing tackle in his rookie season. If Freeland continues to impress, he could force head coach Shane Steichen and Tony Sparano Jr. to make some tough decisions along the offensive line as they look to get Freeland playing time.

With the entire rookie class under contract, they can all focus on their first training camp in the NFL and getting accustomed to the professional game. All eyes will be on Richardson, Brents, and the rest of this group to see what they can accomplish wearing the Horseshoe.

Want more Colts content? Check out the latest episode of the Horseshoe Huddle Podcast!

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