The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... The Colts are without a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, due to the trade for Richardson. The running back, who averaged 2.9 yards per carry last season, disagrees with the sentiment that the Colts lack a top selection. "I think we do have a first-round pick -- and that's me," Richardson said Wednesday, per ESPN.com. "They spent their money on me in the first round. No pressure toward proving to everybody else, just proving to me that I can be the best."
Diehards Line:
As NFL.com's Kevin Patra notes, Richardson's confidence has been unwavering since the season ended, believing he can bounce back with a full offseason in the Colts' offense. "As far as confidence, man, I can't wait. There's a lot that I want to do," Richardson said. "I've been playing football my whole life. I never thought it would become a struggle for me. I look back at it and I say, 'Hey, you're still the guy, you're still the Trent Richardson you've always been. Just keep your mindset right. ...'" It's the right mindset, but Richardson will have more competition for carries with Vick Ballard and Ahmad Bradshaw returning from injury. In other words, fantasy football owners shouldn't share in his confidence until they see actual on-field evidence he's making the necessary strides in OTAs, mini-camps and training camp.
