The Indianapolis Colts have created uncertainty at the quarterback position with Anthony Richardson after naming Daniel Jones as their starter for the 2025 season. Head coach Shane Steichen announced the decision earlier this week, leaving Anthony Richardson’s role with the franchise unclear.
Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled to find consistency since entering the league. His rookie season in 2023 was limited to four games due to injuries.
In 2024, he appeared in 11 contests but briefly lost his starting position to veteran Joe Flacco. He concluded the season with a 47.7 completion percentage, recording eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions. These performance metrics underscore ongoing difficulties adjusting to the professional level.
Reports have surfaced linking Richardson to potential trades, with multiple teams reportedly showing interest if he becomes available.
Trade prospects emerge for Richardson
Sources suggest that the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers are among the franchises exploring a move, while CBS Sports analyst Jordan Dajani also identified the New Orleans Saints, Las Vegas Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens as possible destinations.
The Rams present a plausible landing spot given questions surrounding Matthew Stafford’s durability and the long-term quarterback situation in Los Angeles. Richardson could serve as a successor or provide additional depth while the franchise evaluates its options at the position.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are also positioned as a potential destination. With Aaron Rodgers expected to retire after a single season in Pittsburgh, the organization may view Richardson as a long-term solution. Acquiring a young, high-upside quarterback could align with the team’s succession planning strategy.
Richardson’s challenges in Indianapolis are compounded by the franchise’s history of instability at quarterback since Andrew Luck’s retirement in 2019. The Colts have cycled through multiple starters-including Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, Gardner Minshew II, and Joe Flacco-without establishing a sustainable long-term solution. This environment has made it difficult for any quarterback to maintain continuity and demonstrate growth.
The Colts’ quarterback conundrum
Speculation among fans suggests that Richardson’s benching may also reflect strategic planning for future draft positioning, potentially aiming to select a top quarterback prospect in 2026, such as Arch Manning.
Critics argue that the decision to start Daniel Jones-whose performance in New York was inconsistent-highlights the Colts’ willingness to prioritize draft flexibility over Richardson’s development.
Despite these setbacks, Richardson remains a highly regarded athlete with considerable physical tools and upside potential. Analysts note that a trade to a new team could provide a fresh environment and coaching perspective, potentially allowing him to maximize his abilities and rebuild his career trajectory.
The Colts now face critical decisions regarding Richardson’s next steps, with implications for both the franchise and the quarterback’s professional future.
A trade could offer Richardson an opportunity to restart in a more stable situation while enabling Indianapolis to fully commit to Jones as its primary starter.
As the offseason unfolds, Richardson’s situation will remain a key storyline for the Colts and several potential suitor teams across the league.
