QB Anthony Richardson ‘looking good’ as Gators prepare for FSU, but his future seems uncertain

Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson has gone from a rising star to missing in action.

The redshirt freshman’s role remains a mystery entering Saturday’s regular-season finale against Florida State.

“If he’s healthy and available we’ll get him in the game,” interim coach Greg Knox said Monday.

Following Tuesday’s practice, tailback Malik Davis said Richardson appeared ready to go: “He’s been looking good. He’s back.”

When Jones turned an ankle during practice Monday, Richardson was in line to start for the Gators (5-6) against the Seminoles (5-6). Then Jones reportedly returned Wednesday.

One thing is clear, every move Richardson makes generates conversation and drama.

During three games since a concussion ended his first career start against Georgia, the Gators’ redshirt freshman has not attempted a run or a pass in November.

Richardson played during one series — reluctantly, at that — against Samford. Jones still had a shot at the single-game record for passing yards; Richardson told then-coach Dan Mullen he would rather sit out and allow his teammate break the mark.

Through it all, the Gators’ tailspin has continued, leading the school to fire Mullen. Mullen, an expert quarterback coach, was to play a key role in Richardson’s development.

But Richardson’s relationship with Mullen and view of his Florida future has been increasingly puzzling. Following last Saturday’s overtime loss at Missouri, the 19-year-old scrubbed references to UF from his social media.

Richardson’s fast start to the season hinted it was a matter of time before he replaced Jones. But a hamstring injury during an 80-yard touchdown run Week 2 at USF sidelined Richardson two games stalled his development.

Richardson’s scintillating performance off the bench Oct. 16 at LSU, where he accounted for touchdowns on four straight drives during a narrow loss, earned him the start Oct. 30 against No. 1 Georgia. Facing a generational defense, Richardson suffered a three-minute, three-turnover span leading to 21 points.

Richardson then sustained a concussion early in the third quarter of the 34-7 loss, beginning his current stretch of inactivity. After he tweaked a knee dancing in the team hotel on the eve of Florida’s 23-point loss Nov. 6 at South Carolina, Richardson likely entered Mullen’s dog house.

Following last week’s loss to Missouri, Mullen said Richardson didn’t play because he “was banged up with a bunch of injuries.” Earlier in the week, Mullen said Richardson was “100% healthy.”

Richardson’s season has been a head-scratcher, for sure.

He’s completed 33 of 57 of his passes for 474 yards, 5 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. Richardson has run 40 times for 374 yards and 3 touchdowns. Six of his touchdown plays have covered at least 30 yards.

Against FSU, Richardson might enliven a game generating little excitement. Richardson’s appearance undoubtedly would spark conversation about what’s next for him and whether he’ll still be wearing a Gators uniform when the dust settles.

This article first appeared on OrlandoSentinel.com. Email Edgar Thompson at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com or follow him on Twitter at @osgators.