The Indianapolis Colts and quarterback Anthony Richardson might be nearing the end of their journey together. Word from ESPN's Stephen Holder suggests the Colts are set to move forward with Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season, a move that was largely anticipated.
As for the backup role, it seems 2025 draft pick Riley Leonard is emerging as the frontrunner to be the Colts' QB2. This development leaves Richardson as the third-string quarterback, making him a prime candidate for a trade. Sources indicate there are doubts about Richardson's future with the team.
Richardson, drafted fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, hasn't lived up to expectations. Plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, his journey in Indianapolis has been rocky.
However, at just 23 years old, there's still time for a turnaround. The NFL has seen its fair share of quarterbacks who have reinvented themselves after a rough start.
If Richardson hits the trade market, teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Green Bay Packers might show interest in him as a potential project. The Packers, set to lose backup Malik Willis, could see Richardson as a valuable addition. Willis, once struggling after being traded from the Tennessee Titans, found new life in Green Bay and is now poised for a significant payday elsewhere.
The 49ers face a similar situation. Mac Jones revitalized his career with San Francisco in 2025, and while the team insists he won't be traded, any change of heart could open the door for Richardson.
Meanwhile, the Steelers are in quarterback limbo, awaiting Aaron Rodgers' decision on his future. Without a clear long-term answer at the position, Pittsburgh might consider taking a chance on Richardson to join their current quarterback group of Will Howard and Mason Rudolph.
Among these teams, the Packers seem like the most probable destination for Richardson, given their current quarterback dynamics and the departure of Willis. The Steelers and 49ers have more uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situations, making them less likely contenders for Richardson's services.