GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The quarterback depth chart got a little bit lighter for the Florida Gators two weeks ago when 2019 early enrollee Jalon Jones entered the NCAA transfer portal. That leaves the Gators with redshirt-juniors Feleipe Franks and Kyle Trask, as well as redshirt-freshman Emory Jones in the quarterback room.

For Florida 2020 quarterback commit Anthony Richardson, the opening is welcome.

“It’s good for me because it opens up another spot for me to get in early and possibly get more playing time than I usually would,” Richardson said. “So, that’s a good thing for me.”

Richardson has had a long-standing relationship with the Gators. He originally committed to UF last July after Friday Night Lights. However, he de-committed from the Gators this past February, before ultimately rejoining the class again in early April. Richardson explained what got him back in the fold at UF.

“UF, they’ve always stuck out to me. They’ve just talked to me about family things, they’ve basically been a family to me instead of just a team I want to play for.”

Florida head coach Dan Mullen has built a reputation of developing quality quarterbacks over the years. Richardson is ready to receive Mullen’s tutelage.

“I see myself growing a lot, because right now I’m not that well of a polished quarterback. I don’t think I am. So, hopefully when I get there he can fine-tune some of my mechanics, and just help me out, and help me become a better quarterback than I am now.”

As Richardson prepares for his senior season at Gainesville (Fla.) Eastside, he explains what part of his game he’s looking to improve before he steps foot on UF’s campus.

“Reading coverages, because I’m definitely going to need that at the next level. Mainly, reading coverages. That’s all, just reading coverages, because I know when I get there, they’re going to fine-tune me up and help me with that.”

This offseason, Richardson has shown elite athleticism. Highlights of his dunks and blocked shots have hit social media, as well as a blistering 4.50-second forty at 6-foot-4, 222-pounds during The Opening Combine in Orlando. The speed and athleticism is a dimension to Richardson’s game is a huge asset.

“It helps me out a lot because whenever there is pressure or rush, if you need a first down, I can just use my legs, my speed, and just get around people and help the team out. My athleticism, I’m great to have that.”

The 247Sports Composite, an industry generated average, currently ranks Richardson as the nation’s No. 313 overall prospect and the No. 7 dual-threat quarterback in the 2020 recruiting class.