Joe Flacco Has A Serious Message For Those Hoping Him To Mentor Anthony Richardson

When veteran quarterback Joe Flacco signed with the Indianapolis Colts this offseason, he had no intention of being anyone’s nanny.

Last week, Flacco inked a one-year contract with the Colts worth up to $8.7 million. While the arrangement includes $4.5 million in guaranteed pay, there is no promise of a beginning job.

Flacco is anticipated to serve as Anthony Richardson’s backup, as he recovers from a serious shoulder injury that terminated his debut season early. Being Richardson’s backup does not automatically imply that he is the youngster’s mentor, according to Flacco.

Joe Flacco Has Strong Take About Him Mentoring Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson

On Friday, Flacco was officially unveiled as a Colts player. During his news conference, Flacco was asked about his possible position as a mentor for Richardson and other young players. His reaction was lyrical and had a lot of truth, but it may be polarizing for some Colts fans.

“I really don’t believe that’s the job of a backup quarterback,” Flacco stated at his press conference. “I believe that happens naturally as you become part of the team, and you will obviously do that.” In my opinion, I have proven to be a decent teammate. I believe that is the most significant.

“It’s not like you’re going to sit there and hold people’s hands and do different types of things. You have relationships with people, just like you do on every single team you’re on.”

Here’s a good clip for everyone screaming that Joe Flacco would’ve been a great mentor for Deshaun Watson and DTR. It doesn’t sound like that’s how he views his role, which is something we’ve been telling people.

“I don’t believe that’s the job of a backup QB,” Flacco said,… pic.twitter.com/1J3THSYL2L

— The Dawgs – A Cleveland Browns Podcast (@thedawgspodcast) March 23, 2024

Flacco underlined that he had no plans to force a mentorship with Richardson or any other young player. He feels this will happen spontaneously.

The former Super Bowl MVP also stated that any quarterback, backup or not, should want to on the field. Only with that mindset could he, or any other quarterback, be completely engaged with the offense and benefit the entire quarterback room.

Joe Flacco Gives The Indianapolis Colts A Reliable Backup Behind Anthony Richardson

The Colts are surely hoping Richardson can stay healthy this season. But Flacco provides some veteran insurance in case the rehabbing sophomore quarterback misses any time.

Flacco was a shocker for the Cleveland Browns last season after starting quarterback Deshaun Watson was lost for the season. The former Baltimore Ravens quarterback played some of his best football during his five-game regular season stint with the Cleveland Browns.

Of course, it all came crashing down during the playoffs against CJ Stroud and the Houston Texans. However, Colts fans hope that Flacco will not have to carry such a heavy weight in Indianapolis.