Colts give QB Anthony Richardson permission to seek trade: 2023 top-five pick faces uncertain future
CBS Sports
by
Shanna McCarriston
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Indianapolis Colts have granted quarterback Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade, marking a turning point in his uncertain future with the team. Selected as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson has struggled to establish himself as the starter behind Daniel Jones, who is expected to lead the Colts again this season. With his fifth-year option looming, Richardson’s ability to remain with the Colts depends on whether they choose to exercise that option, which would keep him under contract for another year.
Richardson’s career in Indianapolis has been plagued by injuries and inconsistent opportunities. In three seasons, he has appeared in only 17 games with 15 starts, showcasing limited playing time due to both competition and health issues. His rookie season was cut short by a shoulder injury, and he has dealt with hip, back, and foot injuries throughout his tenure, including a freak orbital fracture caused by a stretching band during warmups last October. Despite these setbacks, Richardson has demonstrated flashes of potential, throwing for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception in just four games during his debut season.
The Colts’ decision to allow Richardson to explore other opportunities reflects the challenges he has faced in establishing himself as their starting quarterback. General Manager Chris Ballard recently stated that Richardson is cleared to play football again, suggesting a clean bill of health for the 23-year-old. While his time with the Colts has been marked by adversity, Richardson’s talent and potential remain undeniable. The NFL has seen numerous examples of quarterbacks finding renewed success after being traded or moved, such as Super Bowl champion Sam Darnold, who bounced between teams before thriving with the Seattle Seahawks.
This situation matters to sports fans because it highlights the delicate balance teams must strike when developing young quarterbacks. Richardson’s story is not uncommon in the NFL—many rising stars face uncertainty early in their careers due to competition or injury. His ability to land with a team that can better utilize his skills will be closely monitored by football enthusiasts, as it could serve as a turning point in his career. The Colts’ decision to part ways with Richardson also underscores the league’s competitive nature and the constant evolution of roster-building strategies.
Ultimately, Anthony Richardson’s future now lies in the hands of both him
Verticals
sports
Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/26/2026