When the Indianapolis Colts take their first offensive series in their season opener, Anthony Richardson will be lined up under centre.

Colts coach Shane Steichen named Richardson the starting quarterback on Tuesday.

Richardson had been competing for the starting QB job with Gardner Minshew.

"After evaluating training camp and the film and all that, I made the decision Anthony will be the starting quarterback this year for us," Steichen told reporters. " I like the progress he's made, excited about his future, his play-making ability that he brings to this football team."

His first start will come against the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1 on September 10.

In Saturday's first preseason game, Richardson was the first quarterback on the field and ended up playing 29 snaps in the Colts' 23-19 loss to the Buffalo Bills. He completed 7-of-12 passes for 67 yards with an interception. He also ran twice for seven yards.

Indianapolis selected Richardson fourth overall in April's NFL draft, believing he'd be the team's franchise quarterback for years to come.

By naming him the starter now, the coaching staff can get the 21-year-old more reps in practice and prepared for the regular season.

Richardson started only 13 collegiate games for Florida, but many viewed the dual-threat quarterback as one of the most exciting prospects in this year's draft with the highest upside.