Anthony Richardson poses latest dual-threat challenge for struggling Jets defense

Facing historically inaccurate quarterback Anthony Richardson might be just the medicine that a Jets defense with only two interceptions all season needs.Then again, the bulldozing read-option runs that highlight Richardson’s strengths — and will be on display Sunday when the Colts visit MetLife Stadium — might be just the thing to break a Jets defense that must be growing weary of facing dual threats after allowing five rushing touchdowns to quarterbacks in the last five games, including two last week to Kyler Murray.“You see him on film sometimes shrugging dudes off him,” 320-pound defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw said.“It’s like, ‘Damn.’ He doesn’t care [about contact].

I’m looking forward to the challenge.”The 6-foot-4, 244-pound Richardson, the No.4 pick in the 2023 draft, is returning to the starting lineup after a two-game benching.

His 44.4 completion percentage through six starts is the NFL’s worst since draft bust Akili Smith’s 44.2 percent mark over 12 games in 2000, but Richardson is averaging 16.4 yards per completion.“He can throw the ball really deep,” cornerback D.J.Reed said.

“He throws it accurately deep, too.There is one in particular on film against the Texans that is as good a deep ball as it gets.

We have to respect that, as well as his running ability.”The Jets actually started the week with two separate defensive game plans: One for Richardson and one for backup Joe Flacco “because it feels like two separate offenses,” according to interim head coach and defensive play caller Jeff Ulbrich.More specifically, he said, “The passing game is very similar,” but the Colts like to fall back on Richardson’s legs in critical situations.“We have to have an eye for it,” Reed said, “because it’s something we’ve struggled with.”Running directly at Jets defensive ends Haason Reddick (a pass rusher by trade) and Micheal Clemons (who has been vulnerable to being faked out of position) can be a success...