lester

Because they want to see him play in the new system, first. They aren't paying more money (and have said just as much) for a player that might not fit the 'new' Colts. They already own JT's rights for 2023. Why should they pay more for this year if its possible they don't even want him next year?

Playmakers? From the Athletic, this morning: "4. Anthony Richardson, QB, Indianapolis Colts Like Stroud, Richardson learned a valuable NFL lesson about double-clutching on throws when he was picked off early in his preseason debut. Richardson has a live arm, and it’s clear that his passes generate velocity that’s missing from the other QBs in this class, even on underneath throws. He has much to learn about tying his feet to the timing of his progression, though, because he still makes some poor throws outside of the numbers. Richardson will have some explosive performances this season — good and bad – but he’s the first-round QB I’d bet on winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. — Lee"

You may be on to something. My gut tells me JT knows he doesn't fit. He knows he won't be 'productive' (not the big $$$ kind of productive) in the new offense. I think he made a calculation this summer that he needed to get paid or get outta-dodge before he puts down 2023 tape that does not showcase his strengths. That is what led him to change to the 'aggressive' agent and completely change his public demeanor. That's all the sense I can make out of it.

That's just it. Some posters here think the conversation is about JT being 'worth it'. The conversation is, "Is any running back worth it' in the 2023 version of the NFL (and if yes, how much); and is JT a stud RB anymore. He's young, but that doesn't mean he still has the physical ability to produce at an elite level. That is the gamble. The Colts have consistently said (over and over, in lockstep): They LOVE Jonathon Taylor They believe it is necessary to pay their 'special' players They haven't discussed extensions with any player this off season because they have a new coach and a new system They are willing to discuss an extension during the season. This season. But they have to know first if the player fits into what they are doing now. All of this is reasonable and is great news for Jonathon Taylor. The Colts are likely to overpay for a running back's services, this year, if he would get on the program. Or, is he hurt, and can't perform (does he know this and this is what this is all about)? REMEMBER: This isn't a free agent negotiation. This is a player who is already on contract with the team and is expected, is contractually obligated, to play football for this team. That is, unless he cannot perform or until the team decides they can and should trade him for something. Mr. Taylor, can you perform your contractual obligations this season? If not, how do you expect to be traded; and/or how do you anticipate being able to earn a new, longer contract?

This part, in the bold: I believe (from listening to what Ballard has said and what he isn't saying) this is part of the reason we did 'nothing' with the O-Line this year. Ballard acknowledged that the fact of changing the line last year was just as disruptive as the quality of the players he changed. What I think he wants is this: he wants to keep the group from the end of last season in place so they can learn and grow together. He thinks the pieces are adequate and will work better if they stay a unit. Plugging in a new piece - even if that piece is a fantastic individual - won't necessarily solve the problem (especially since there aren't enough good lineman and dollars for good linemen to go around). So, the line stays as is. This is just my understanding of the situation, of course. #NoCharge

That kidney thing he had going on from the Mack truck (or the Denver broncos) that hit him was a busted play. He was scrambling.

This. I've seen enough. The fear was that Richardson is sooooo raw that he would be overwhelmed (therefore, stunting his growth). I didn't see that on Saturday. He is a rookie but he looked like he belonged.

That is actually a very insightful take on it. Of course Richardson had the yips today. I wonder how clever SS is - was it deliberate? A kinda test? Interesting.

The eye opener is the rookie completion percentage record. Who realized it was that low? Makes one wonder; what was Luck's rookie completion percentage?

I think I might go to Germany for the game. That is likely it this year. I'm strange, maybe even a bit bougie - if I'm not able to attend the game in a suite; then I really, really prefer the game on TV. I just can't tell what's going on otherwise.

I'm thinking about it. Not just because of the game, but its as good of an excuse to take a trip with my son as any other.