In a surprising twist for Colts fans, quarterback Anthony Richardson has requested a trade after losing his starting spot to Daniel Jones. This development leaves Indianapolis in an intriguing position, especially with the team’s confidence in second-year quarterback Riley Leonard.
Richardson, who was the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has yet to find a new home. Colts General Manager Chris Ballard has expressed faith in Leonard, a 2025 sixth-round pick, as a potential backup. Leonard turned heads with a standout performance against one of the league’s top defenses in the regular-season finale, showcasing poise beyond his years.
“We like Riley, we like what he did,” Ballard noted. “The game wasn’t too big for him. That’s what I like the most.”
Richardson’s journey with the Colts has been tumultuous. Drafted to be the franchise’s future, he started his first two seasons but lost the starting role to Jones after a competitive training camp. With no clear path to reclaim the starting position, Richardson is seeking a fresh start elsewhere.
“He asked for a trade,” Ballard confirmed. “We’ll see what happens.”
Finding a trade partner has proven challenging, as teams around the league have been busy solidifying their quarterback rosters. Options are dwindling, with Minnesota adding Carson Wentz and Philadelphia trading for Andy Dalton.
If a trade doesn’t materialize, Richardson could return for the final year of his rookie contract. Releasing him would incur a $5 million cap hit, a scenario Ballard is keen to avoid given Richardson’s talent and potential.
“He’s too talented,” Ballard emphasized. “I still want good for Anthony. He’s had some bad luck.”
Injuries have plagued Richardson’s career, including a shoulder surgery that cut his rookie season short and a freak accident that caused a fractured orbital bone. Despite these setbacks, the Colts remain optimistic about his potential.
“He’s so immensely talented,” Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon remarked. “He totally has the opportunity to have a career in the NFL if he wants to.”
With Jones firmly in place as the starter, the Colts are looking at Leonard as a viable backup. His performance against Houston-21 completions on 34 attempts for 270 yards, two passing touchdowns, and one rushing touchdown-demonstrated his rapid development and dedication to improving his mechanics.
“You want to talk about a guy that really transformed mechanically,” Ballard said. “He was obsessed with it. It was fun to watch him fall in love with the process.”
As the offseason unfolds, Indianapolis faces a crucial decision regarding their quarterback depth chart. Whether Richardson stays or goes, Leonard is poised to step into a significant role, with the Colts open to adding more depth if necessary.
“Does that say we’re not going to add somebody? No,” Ballard clarified.
“We still could, but we like Riley. The team likes Riley.”
The situation remains fluid, and Colts fans will be watching closely to see how it all plays out.