Tom Brady won a record seven Super Bowls
Tom Brady won a record seven Super Bowls. AFP News

Anthony Richardson, the Indianapolis Colts' 23-year-old quarterback, made headlines during the team's 2025 training camp after boldly claiming that he would beat NFL legend Tom Brady in a quarterback competition. The comment, which surfaced on social media on Tuesday, 5 August, has since gone viral, sparking heated reactions across Twitter. The remark comes amid an ongoing quarterback battle between Richardson and Daniel Jones, intensifying scrutiny of his performance heading into the preseason.

Bold claim: 'I'd beat out Tom Brady'

Richardson's confident remark was first shared by NFL insider Dov Kleiman, who quoted the Colts quarterback as saying: 'I'd beat out Tom Brady'. The statement was reportedly made during a closed media session at the Colts camp and quickly spread across NFL social media circles.

While the context behind the quote appears to reflect Richardson's self-belief ahead of the 2025 season, the line caught fire online. Thousands of users reposted the quote, with several prominent sports accounts amplifying the soundbite.

Twitter reacts: Supporters and sceptics clash online

Richardson's name trended within hours, sparking a sharp divide among fans. Some praised his belief in himself, while others questioned whether the comparison to a seven-time Super Bowl champion was earned.

Several users posted stat comparisons between Brady's early seasons and Richardson's current performance. Media outlets like The Times of India further amplified the moment, spotlighting the fan frenzy around the Colts quarterback.

Do the stats back up the talk?

Richardson's on-field numbers in 2024 paint a less dominant picture. Across 11 regular-season games, he completed 47.7 percent of his passes for 1,814 yards, with eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His passer rating stood at 61.6, placing him among the lower-ranked starting quarterbacks in the league.

Over his short NFL career, Richardson has tallied 11 touchdown passes, 13 interceptions and an overall completion rate of 50.6 percent. His current career passer rating is 67.8. These figures fall well below elite standards and suggest that, despite flashes of athleticism, consistency remains an area for growth.

QB battle intensifies in Indianapolis

Richardson's quote comes at a pivotal moment for the Colts, who have yet to officially name a starting quarterback for the 2025 season. The team's first unofficial depth chart lists both Richardson and Daniel Jones as co-starters.

Colts head coach Shane Steichen recently told reporters the race was 'neck and neck', with both players expected to see significant preseason snaps. As reported by The New York Post, betting markets have moved in Richardson's favour, he's now listed as a heavy favourite (−350) to start in Week 1, following strong training camp performances.

Preseason game could define Richardson's fate

Richardson is slated to start the Colts' upcoming preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, playing around one and a half quarters before handing the reins to Jones.

As Sports Illustrated reports, this game may represent Richardson's 'final chance' to prove he's ready to lead the franchise. With mounting scrutiny and questions over his shoulder injuries from 2024, the young quarterback faces what insiders are calling a 'make-or-break' test.

Whether his bold claim will translate into dominance on the field or add more pressure remains to be seen.

Writer's pick