Colts Grant Anthony Richardson Permission to Seek Trade

What Does This Mean for the Young QB's Future?

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:40am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fractured, multi-angle view of a quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of navy blue, white, and burnt orange representing the Colts' team colors.The Colts' decision to trade their former first-round QB Anthony Richardson reflects the complex challenges of developing young talent in the NFL.Indianapolis Today

The Indianapolis Colts have granted former first-round pick Anthony Richardson permission to explore a trade, just two years after drafting him 4th overall. The 23-year-old quarterback has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play, losing the starting job to Daniel Jones. With an uncertain trade value, Richardson's future in the NFL remains unclear.

Why it matters

This move by the Colts signals a shift in their plans for the young quarterback, who was once expected to be a cornerstone of the franchise. Richardson's trade request raises questions about the team's confidence in his long-term potential and whether he can thrive in a new environment.

The details

After being selected 4th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson lost the starting quarterback battle to Daniel Jones in 2025. His short career has been plagued by injuries, including a significant orbital fracture that limited his playing time. In 17 games, Richardson has shown flashes of talent, rushing for over 600 yards and 10 touchdowns, but his passing accuracy and decision-making have been inconsistent, with a 50.6% completion rate and 13 interceptions.

  • Richardson was drafted 4th overall by the Colts in 2023.
  • He lost the starting QB job to Daniel Jones in 2025.
  • The Colts have now granted Richardson permission to seek a trade in 2026.

The players

Anthony Richardson

A 23-year-old quarterback who was the Colts' first-round pick in 2023, but has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, who recently hinted at a potential future with Richardson before granting him permission to seek a trade.

Daniel Jones

The Colts' starting quarterback, who beat out Richardson for the job in 2025 and has since been confirmed as the long-term QB1.

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What’s next

The Colts will now wait to see if they can find a trade partner for Richardson, who will look to revive his career elsewhere.

The takeaway

This decision by the Colts highlights the challenges of developing young quarterbacks in the NFL. Richardson's struggles with injuries and inconsistent play have led the team to move on, but his potential could still make him an attractive option for other teams looking to take a chance on a former first-round pick.