Anthony Richardson’s first three pro seasons definitely passed in a way he or the Colts would have wanted. However, it appears the No. 4 overall pick of the 2023 draft still has plenty of opportunities to rewrite his NFL career story when the off-season returns after an orbital fracture cost him most of his 2025 playing time.
Even more, he’ll be glad to have the backing of General Manager Chris Ballard, who’s rooting for his success prospects in the coming season. Here’s more about Chris Ballard’s approval and Richardson’s development.
Colts GM Chris Ballard Backs Anthony Richardson’s Career to Develop
Chris Ballard
Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard leaves the field Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati.
Speaking to journalists during a scouting press conference on Tuesday, Chris Ballard disclosed that Richardson was improving health-wise. Richardson reportedly met with another specialist and has been cleared to play football.
However, beyond revealing the athlete’s health status, Ballard chose to hail the athlete’s potential. Ballard highlighted Richardson’s ability to withstand many injuries – including the recent eye injury – as a trait he appreciates in the player. Yet, Ballard claims Richardson’s health still has “got ways to go.”
#Colts GM Chris Ballard, asked to elaborate on Anthony Richardson Sr. and whether or not he needs a fresh start:
“I’m not gonna say he needs a complete fresh start. Anthony’s still young. He’s still developing. So, we’ll see what the future holds. I still believe in Anthony.” pic.twitter.com/fxP5ytKI2h
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) February 24, 2026
Ballard also seems to bet on Richardson’s potential. While acknowledging the young athlete is still in his developmental stage, the man in charge in Indianapolis still seems to believe in Anthony.Richardson briefly appeared in two games in 2025, registering only 14 offensive snaps. While the Colts seem more likely to decline Richardson’s fifth-year option during the next spring, Ballard maintains the athlete could have a future at Indianapolis. In hiswords,
“I’m not gonna say he needs a complete fresh start. Anthony’s still young. He’s still developing. So, we’ll see what the future holds. I still believe in Anthony.”
Meanwhile, only a year ago, Richardson was in run for the starting quarterback role against Daniel Jones’ interest. Jones won the race in training camp, relegating Richardson to the bench.
Incidentally, Jones would put up a decent outing for his side early in the season, leading them to a 7-1 start. As it stands, the Colts are reportedly planning to extend his contract over the long haul. Regardless of Jones’ recent success, Richardson could bank on Ballard’s public approval and his undeniable talent to help him pull through the rest of his career.