Kevin O'Connell shared glowing words of encouragement with Anthony Richardson after Colts QB's recent benching

One of the toughest things to overcome as a struggling NFL quarterback is how you grapple with your confidence. If you’re someone like the Indianapolis Colts’ Anthony Richardson, who recently got benched, it’s very easy to dwell on your failures and think you won’t be able to make it in the league if someone’s “giving up” on you this early.

But Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell isn’t going to let Richardson fall by the wayside. He can still see his talent and moxie and doesn’t want him to get down on himself.

In a new video from Inside the NFL/NFL Films, O’Connell is recorded sharing some strong words of encouragement for Richardson after the Vikings beat the Colts last Sunday night. For someone like O’Connell, who isn’t remotely obligated to be this candid with an opposing player, it’s a great show of grace and understanding of the bigger picture:

.@Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell had some words of encouragement for @GVOaant pic.twitter.com/TaXW9dFaMx

— NFL (@NFL) November 7, 2024

It’s probably hard right now, but Richardson need not keep his head down. He will likely get another opportunity sooner rather than later to start, hopefully, to reach his immense potential in the NFL. And he can rest easy knowing that coaches like O’Connell everywhere will be in his corner.