Posted on Feb 26

Colts QB Richardson given permission to seek trade after losing starting job to Jones

Posted Feb 26, 2026

The Indianapolis Colts have granted rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade after he has faced stiff competition for the starting role.

Why it matters: This decision highlights the volatility surrounding quarterback positions in the NFL, particularly for young players who are still developing.

Richardson was drafted fourth overall in 2023, signifying high expectations from the Colts.
With veteran quarterback Daniel Jones expected to be re-signed, Richardson's future with the team is now uncertain, potentially impacting his growth as a player and the team's long-term strategy.

What’s new: The Colts’ decision comes after Richardson has started 15 games, throwing 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Despite flashes of potential, Richardson's struggles with consistency may have prompted the team to consider alternatives under center.
His injuries, including a significant eye injury last season that required consultations due to a broken orbital bone, have also added layers of complexity to his development.

Yes, but: While Richardson's performance has been underwhelming statistically, his youth and draft pedigree indicate he could still develop into a franchise quarterback.

At just 23 years old, he has time to refine his skills, provided he can find a suitable situation that prioritizes his growth.
If he does not secure a starting position elsewhere, he risks stagnating behind a seasoned quarterback like Jones.

What to watch: Potential suitors for Richardson will be key to monitoring over the coming weeks.

Teams looking for a young quarterback with a high ceiling may view him as a valuable asset if the Colts proceed with a trade.
The dynamics of the quarterback market will also play a vital role, especially if other teams express interest in moving up or acquiring a young signal-caller.

What’s next: The Colts are likely to weigh their options carefully in the wake of this decision.

With one season left on Richardson's rookie contract—assuming his fifth-year option is not exercised—they must determine whether to invest further in his development or pivot toward a different solution.
Engaging in discussions with other teams could lead to various outcomes, including potential trades or even retaining him as a project quarterback under Jones.

The bottom line: The Colts’ move to allow Richardson to explore trade possibilities reflects the complexities and pressures surrounding NFL quarterbacks.

As the landscape continues to shift, both Richardson's career trajectory and the Colts' fortunes will depend heavily on the decisions made in the upcoming months.

Colts QB Richardson given permission to seek trade after losing starting job to Jones

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 26, 2026

The Indianapolis Colts have granted rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade after he has faced stiff competition for the starting role.

Why it matters: This decision highlights the volatility surrounding quarterback positions in the NFL, particularly for young players who are still developing.

Richardson was drafted fourth overall in 2023, signifying high expectations from the Colts.

With veteran quarterback Daniel Jones expected to be re-signed, Richardson's future with the team is now uncertain, potentially impacting his growth as a player and the team's long-term strategy.

What’s new: The Colts’ decision comes after Richardson has started 15 games, throwing 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Despite flashes of potential, Richardson's struggles with consistency may have prompted the team to consider alternatives under center.

His injuries, including a significant eye injury last season that required consultations due to a broken orbital bone, have also added layers of complexity to his development.

Yes, but: While Richardson's performance has been underwhelming statistically, his youth and draft pedigree indicate he could still develop into a franchise quarterback.

At just 23 years old, he has time to refine his skills, provided he can find a suitable situation that prioritizes his growth.

If he does not secure a starting position elsewhere, he risks stagnating behind a seasoned quarterback like Jones.

What to watch: Potential suitors for Richardson will be key to monitoring over the coming weeks.

Teams looking for a young quarterback with a high ceiling may view him as a valuable asset if the Colts proceed with a trade.

The dynamics of the quarterback market will also play a vital role, especially if other teams express interest in moving up or acquiring a young signal-caller.

What’s next: The Colts are likely to weigh their options carefully in the wake of this decision.

With one season left on Richardson's rookie contract—assuming his fifth-year option is not exercised—they must determine whether to invest further in his development or pivot toward a different solution.

Engaging in discussions with other teams could lead to various outcomes, including potential trades or even retaining him as a project quarterback under Jones.

The bottom line: The Colts’ move to allow Richardson to explore trade possibilities reflects the complexities and pressures surrounding NFL quarterbacks.

As the landscape continues to shift, both Richardson's career trajectory and the Colts' fortunes will depend heavily on the decisions made in the upcoming months.