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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Gardner Minshew treasures the memory of his incredible 2019 season in Jacksonville.

The rookie quarterback became well-known throughout the league because to his quick start and stylish mustache. Indeed, “Minshew Mania” was a major trend. After seven straight losses and less than two years, it was over.

Even though Minshew might never have months quite like them again, his return to Jacksonville this week as the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts brings back fond memories.

“Dude, it was like a dream—it was so amazing.” After rookie Anthony Richardson was placed on injured reserve on Wednesday, he stated, “It was everything you wanted as a kid and then some.”

Even though it seems like a lifetime ago, I am incredibly glad that I had that experience. I’m incredibly appreciative of Jacksonville, its supporters, and its community. It was fantastic.

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It’s obvious that Minshew has no animosity toward the organization that selected him in the draft and gave him his first start before deciding to move him to Philadelphia in August 2021.

However, since his first season, nothing has remained the same for the former star of Washington State.

Due to his difficulties in Year 2, he only played with the Eagles for two years. There, he bided his time behind the quickly developing Jalen Hurts, honing his mechanics, putting in extra time in the film room, learning the offense designed by Shane Steichen and Nick Sirianni, and being prepared for any situation that might arise.

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The outcomes were favorable. Before losing in the Super Bowl last year, he won an NFC championship and advanced to the postseason twice. And even though Minshew started just seven games with the Eagles and had a 1-3 record, he proved to be the ultimate professional with a steady, dependable presence.

For this reason, among others, Steichen, who was brought on by the Colts in February, encouraged them to sign Minshew in March. Minshew’s decision to attend Indianapolis, which was prepared to give him a genuine shot at the starting position even after choosing Richardson with the fourth overall pick in the April draft, was largely influenced by Steichen and his offense.