Following the decision to grant Anthony Richardson permission to explore trade opportunities earlier this February, the Indianapolis Colts have taken significant steps to solidify their quarterback depth chart. The franchise opted to retain veteran Daniel Jones, securing him to a new deal after his recovery from a season-ending Achilles injury, and continues to prioritize the growth of 2025 draft selection Riley Leonard as the primary backup.
Richardson, who entered the league as the fourth overall pick in 2023, is currently entering the final season of his rookie deal. This comes after the Colts front office chose not to exercise his fifth-year option. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his long-term future with the team, Richardson has maintained a professional approach, participating in voluntary offseason workouts this month.
Reflecting on his current situation, Richardson expressed gratitude for the continued opportunity to compete at the professional level. He noted that being present at OTAs has been a positive experience, allowing him to focus on his development while remaining part of an NFL roster. For Richardson, the chance to put in work on the field remains a primary focus regardless of his place on the depth chart.
Over the course of three seasons, Richardson has posted an 8-7 record as a starter. Much of his development was showcased during the 2024 campaign, where he recorded 1,814 passing yards with eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His dual-threat capabilities were evident as he contributed 499 rushing yards and six scores on the ground, though ball security remained a significant hurdle, evidenced by seven fumbles during that stretch.
The talent that made Richardson a top-five pick is undeniable, characterized by elite arm strength and explosive running ability. However, his limited collegiate experience at Florida has translated into a lack of consistency at the professional level. The disparity between his physical tools and his on-field execution is the primary reason the Colts have hesitated to commit to him with a long-term extension.
Turnovers and accuracy issues have been the most prominent obstacles in his progression. Richardson’s aggressive playstyle, while capable of producing highlight-reel moments, often leads to mistakes against sophisticated NFL secondaries. With a career completion percentage of just 50.6%, Richardson has struggled to maintain the offensive rhythm required in head coach Shane Steichen’s system. Steichen’s scheme relies on timing and efficiency—areas where Daniel Jones excelled last season, leading the team to a 7-1 start before his injury sidelined him.
Indianapolis Maintains Flexibility Under Center
The Colts appear content to keep Richardson on the roster as a depth piece while remaining open to trade offers that meet their valuation. Since drafting Richardson three years ago, the team has gone 25-26 and has yet to secure a playoff berth. This lack of postseason success has likely influenced the team’s willingness to move in a different direction at the position.
Richardson’s previous season was cut short in Week 6 when he was placed on injured reserve due to a fractured orbital bone that affected his vision. Now fully recovered, he is focused on reclaiming his standing and competing for the backup role behind Jones. He has acknowledged that his longevity in the league depends entirely on his ability to improve and capitalize on the opportunities he is given.
For Richardson to revitalize his career—whether in Indianapolis or elsewhere—he must prove he can evolve into a reliable pocket passer. While his athleticism allows for off-schedule plays, NFL teams are looking for the ability to manage the game and execute quick-game concepts consistently. Until Richardson demonstrates he can win from the pocket at a high volume, his trade market is likely to remain quiet.
Final Thoughts
Anthony Richardson finds himself at a career crossroads in Indianapolis. While his physical gifts are rare, his path to a starting role is currently blocked by a veteran the team trusts and a young prospect they are keen to develop. The upcoming season will be a critical test of Richardson’s maturity and his ability to refine the technical aspects of his game. For the Colts, keeping Richardson provides a high-upside insurance policy, but his future as a franchise cornerstone appears to be fading in favor of a more stable, rhythm-based passing attack.
