When the Indianapolis Colts signed quarterback Daniel Jones to a multi-year extension, it was seen as a foregone conclusion that former first-round pick Anthony Richardson would be traded this offseason. Now it appears another option is on the table.
Speaking to reporters at the NFL's annual league meetings this week, Colts general manager Chris Ballard said there is a "scenario" where the team keeps Richardson through the 2026 season.
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"There's definitely a scenario there. He's a good guy and he's talented. I mean, I still want good for Anthony, man. I still think he's got a lot of potential in him. He's had a lot of bad luck, but I still think Anthony has a lot of potential and he's maturing and growing."
Indianapolis Colts GM Chris Ballard if the team can keep Anthony Richardson
Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, appeared in only two games with 14 combined offensive snaps last season. In October, he fractured his orbital bone during pregame warmups when a resistance band he was using broke and hit him in the face.
At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Richardson's agent permission to make a trade. Various reports have linked the Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers to the dual-threat quarterback.
However, Kansas City has acquired quarterback Justin Fields from the New York Jets. Meanwhile, the Packers are among the teams interested in signing free-agent quarterback Kirk Cousins to serve as a backup next season.
The trade market for Richardson may not be as strong as his representation expected, or the Indianapolis club may not be satisfied with the draft-pick compensation the club is offering for him. With Jones recovering from his Achilles tendon, it's obviously possible that the Colts keep Richardson through training camp and see if he can be the starting option until Jones is ready.
