Colts Insider: Anthony Richardson Sr. Could Seek Trade Amid 'Inevitable' Exit From Indianapolis

The former first-round pick has struggled in Indianapolis and could be on the move this offseason.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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According to a Colts insider, quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. may seek a trade this offseason as it "feels inevitable" he will exit Indianapolis. Richardson, a 2023 first-round pick, has not lived up to expectations with the Colts and could be moved for draft pick compensation, similar to other young QBs traded in recent years.

Why it matters

The Colts have uncertainty at the quarterback position, with Daniel Jones hitting free agency and Richardson failing to impress as a young prospect. A trade could allow Richardson to find a better situation to develop, while the Colts recoup value and continue their search for a long-term answer under center.

The details

Per Colts insider Stephen Holder, if Richardson's vision issues from a "freak orbital bone injury" are resolved, "look for him to seek a trade." While no formal trade request has been made yet, Holder says "it is beginning to feel inevitable" that Richardson will be moved. Holder notes the Colts could recoup "draft-pick compensation" for Richardson, citing recent trades of young QBs like Kenny Pickett, Sam Howell, Justin Fields and Taylor Heinicke.

  • Richardson was drafted by the Colts in 2023.

The players

Anthony Richardson Sr.

A 23-year-old quarterback who was a first-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, but has struggled to live up to expectations so far.

Daniel Jones

The Colts' current starting quarterback, who is set to hit free agency this offseason after a strong 2022 campaign.

Riley Leonard

The Colts' backup quarterback who showed promise when forced into the starting role last season.

Stephen Holder

A Colts insider who provided insight on Anthony Richardson Sr.'s potential trade value and future with the team.

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What they’re saying

“Assuming his vision issues are resolved after his freak orbital bone injury, look for him to seek a trade. There has been no request just yet, according to team sources, but it is beginning to feel inevitable.”

— Stephen Holder, Colts insider

“As for his trade value, the Colts can certainly recoup something. Each of the following quarterbacks was traded for draft-pick compensation in the past two seasons: Kenny Pickett (twice), Sam Howell (twice), Justin Fields and Taylor Heinicke. There's no reason to think the Colts couldn't get something for a quarterback who will be just 24 next season and is a former first-round pick.”

— Stephen Holder, Colts insider

What’s next

The Colts will need to determine if they want to bring back Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback, which could impact Richardson's future in Indianapolis. If Jones returns, the Colts will likely look to trade Richardson for draft pick compensation this offseason.

The takeaway

Anthony Richardson Sr.'s struggles in Indianapolis have made a trade feel inevitable, and the Colts could recoup valuable draft capital by moving the former first-round pick to a team willing to invest in his development. This offseason will be crucial for Richardson's NFL future as he looks to find the right situation to maximize his potential.