Matt LaFleur and Brian Gutekunst
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Packers President and CEO Ed Policy explained his decision to hand Matt LaFleur and Brian Gutekunst new contracts
The Green Bay Packers have a lot to make up for the talent they lost in free agency. That includes even their backup quarterback position, replacing Malik Willis, who signed with the Miami Dolphins.
While it could come down to several options, one of the most obvious once it was announced he was available via trade was Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Richardson, a former first-round, No. 4 overall pick in 2023, is in desperate need of a new home after three years with the Colts. Many believe the Packers would be a strong fit, especially given how the team helped revive Willis’ career over the last two seasons.
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski wrote in one of his 2026 NFL Draft bold predictions that Green Bay will make a move for Richardson.
Packers Predicted To Make Draft Move for Anthony Richardson
If the Packers were playing tomorrow and Jordan Love was injured, head coach Matt LaFleur’s options would be between Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord. Sobleski argued that Richardson brings far more upside than either.
“Richardson presents significantly more upside, particularly in a situation where he has time to sit, learn and develop behind Jordan Love. He’s still only 23 years old and a former fourth overall draft pick,” Sobleski wrote.
“The Colts started him too early. He wasn’t ready for the responsibility of being an NFL quarterback or facing professional defenses. Both sides failed each other.”
That’s where Green Bay comes in.
The Packers have already shown they can develop a quarterback in a backup role. Willis proved that over the last two years, stepping in when needed while also rebuilding his value.
Richardson could follow a similar path — but it would come at a cost.
“General manager Chris Ballard will almost certainly move Richardson at a steeply discounted price, likely a Day 3 draft pick,” Sobleski added.
“The Packers can capitalize by bringing in another underdeveloped, top-shelf athlete and let head coach Matt LaFleur and offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich get back in the lab and go to work.”
Green Bay currently holds seven total picks in this year’s draft, with five coming on Day 3, giving them flexibility to make a move without sacrificing premium capital.
Anthony Richardson’s Career Leaves Questions Despite Upside
The Packers would likely be comfortable parting with a Day 3 pick. They hold selections in rounds four through seven, including two seventh-rounders.
Still, it would be somewhat surprising if the Colts accepted a minimal return for a former top-five pick — even with Richardson’s struggles.
His career has been defined by inconsistency and injuries.
After going 2-2 as a rookie, Richardson missed the remainder of that season. The following year, he appeared in 11 games, going 6-5 while completing just 47.7% of his passes, with eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Last season, he appeared in only two games and didn’t make a single start.
For Green Bay, quarterback isn’t a pressing need compared to other teams around the league. But as they’ve learned, having a reliable QB2 can make a major difference over the course of a season.
And if Richardson can be developed properly, the upside could be worth the gamble.