In the world of football, success is often built on the shoulders of talented players and the guidance of exceptional coaches. For the Indianapolis Colts, their new head coach Shane Steichen embodies this winning combination. Steichen's rise to the top was fueled, in part, by the achievements of his former pupil, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Steichen joined the Eagles in 2021 as their offensive coordinator, coinciding with Hurts's second season in the league. The young quarterback showcased his prowess, throwing for an impressive 3,144 yards and 16 touchdowns, while also rushing for 784 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Hurts's remarkable performance led the Eagles to the Super Bowl last year, boasting a stellar 14-1 record as a starter. Throughout the season, he accumulated 3,701 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, with only six interceptions. Under Steichen's tutelage, Hurts's quarterback rating soared from 77.6 to an impressive 87.2 and 101.5 in his two years.
When asked about Hurts, Steichen couldn't help but sing his praises, highlighting the quarterback's unmatched dedication and work ethic. "The way he went about his business is a message to all players, especially young quarterbacks," Steichen emphasized. He stressed the importance of hard work in achieving success in the league, emphasizing that talent alone is not enough.
Steichen's admiration for Hurts's commitment extends beyond the field. He believes that a love for the game and a relentless desire to improve are the common traits shared by all quarterbacks, regardless of their individual playing styles. This sentiment holds true for the Colts' fourth overall draft pick, Anthony Richardson, who has already left an indelible impression with his off-the-field work.
Steichen acknowledges Richardson's tremendous efforts thus far and emphasizes the need to maintain this level of dedication throughout the grueling 17-week gauntlet of the season. With a new opponent and game plan every week, the Colts must be ready to face the challenges head-on.
The prospect of Richardson stepping into the role of Hurts in the Colts' offense is undeniably exciting. While Hurts excelled as a passer in college, Richardson's potential is equally enticing. Though he played fewer games and had a lower completion rate in college, the young quarterback's talent is evident, and Steichen's guidance will surely unlock his full potential.
As the Indianapolis Colts embark on a new era under the leadership of Shane Steichen, the echoes of Jalen Hurts's success reverberate throughout the team. With Anthony Richardson poised to make his mark, Colts fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling journey that lies ahead.
