The Indianapolis Colts set themselves big time when they drafted quarterback Anthony Richardson in the first-round of the 2023 NFL Draft from the Florida Gators. Indianapolis took a major risk on drafting him because of his raw talent and upside, but general manager Chris Ballard majorly whiffed on this selection.
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Dec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) watches the action on the field from the sidelin at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Richardson this offseason has requested a trade from the organization because the Colts are committed to Daniel Jones at quarterback for the next couple of years. He is going to be the starting quarterback and signed a new two-year deal this offseason. It will be interesting to see if the former Florida quarterback is going to be traded or maybe even released before the 2026 NFL season begins.
NFL Analyst Wonders If the Indianapolis Colts Will Release QB Anthony Richardson Before the Start Of the 2026 NFL Season
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Indianapolis Colts quarterbacks Anthony Richardson Sr. (5), Philip Rivers (17), Brett Rypien (4), and Riley Leonard (15) on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, during practice at the Colts training facility in Indianapolis.
Mike Jones of the Athletic wrote about different NFL headlines as the offseason continues to march on. He questions the future of Richardson in Indianapolis. The former Gators quarterback requested a trade earlier in the offseason. Jones said,
“Just five years ago, the Indianapolis Colts used the No. 4 pick of the draft on Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson. But slow development, inconsistent displays of professionalism, injuries and the surprise resurgence of Daniel Jones last season have seemingly madeRichardson expendable. The quarterback requested a trade earlier this offseason, but the Colts have yet to find a trade partner, and teams that seemingly had a need for a young developmental backup quarterback have mostly made their moves. Will the Colts release Richardson so he can catch on with another team as a training camp hopeful and they can turn the page? Or, will they keep him on the roster as insurance for Jones, who is targeting a Week 1 return from a torn Achilles tendon?”
Richardson is only 23 years old, but many have already labeled him as a bust. He is going to have to go elsewhere to maybe have another chance in the NFL. However, if Richardson is released and if no one wants to trade him, maybe he will be out of the league in no time.
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