Colts Reportedly Shopping 2023 Top-5 Pick Anthony Richardson

The quarterback is open to learning behind a veteran before hitting free agency in 2027.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:49pm

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The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly actively shopping 2023 first-round quarterback Anthony Richardson, who has struggled with injuries and performance issues during his first few seasons in the NFL. Richardson is open to the idea of learning behind an established veteran quarterback before hitting free agency in 2027, rather than trying to compete for a starting job immediately.

Why it matters

The Colts' decision to draft Richardson with a top-5 pick in 2023 has not panned out, as the young QB has failed to live up to his potential so far. This move signals the Colts are ready to move on and try to recoup some value for the former Florida standout.

The details

The Colts used the 4th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Anthony Richardson, hoping he could be their long-term answer at quarterback. However, Richardson has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play, leading the team to conclude that he is not their franchise QB. NFL reporter Evan Sidery reported that Richardson is open to learning behind a veteran QB before hitting free agency in 2027, rather than trying to compete for a starting job immediately.

  • The Colts drafted Anthony Richardson with the 4th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
  • Richardson is set to become a free agent in 2027.

The players

Anthony Richardson

A quarterback drafted 4th overall by the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, who has struggled with injuries and performance issues in his first few NFL seasons.

Indianapolis Colts

An NFL team that drafted Anthony Richardson in the 2023 NFL Draft, but is now reportedly actively shopping him after he failed to live up to expectations.

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What they’re saying

“There is a strong likelihood Anthony Richardson won't find a team who will provide him the opportunity to compete for a starting job. Richardson is open to learning behind an established veteran before becoming a free agent in 2027. The Colts are actively shopping Richardson.”

— Evan Sidery, NFL reporter (X)

What’s next

If the Colts are able to trade Richardson, the quarterback will look to learn behind an established veteran QB before hitting free agency in 2027 and trying to revive his NFL career.

The takeaway

The Colts' decision to draft Anthony Richardson with a top-5 pick has not worked out, leading the team to now actively shop the struggling quarterback. Richardson is open to a path of learning behind a veteran before getting another chance to prove himself, rather than trying to immediately compete for a starting job.