For most of the offseason, it seemed like Anthony Richardson’s time with the Indianapolis Colts was over. The team committed to Daniel Jones as their starter with a two-year, $88 million contract, and the franchise was working with Richardson’s agent to find a trade partner for the young quarterback.
However, on Wednesday, during the team’s open OTA practice, it was Richardson who trotted out on the field with the starting lineup. Obviously, that’s because Jones is still recovering from the Achilles injury he suffered late last season. However, Indianapolis isn’t closing the door on Richardson remaining with the team.
Head coach Shane Steichen made that clear during his talk with the media on Wednesday. When asked why the team would give Richardson reps even though he could be traded soon, the head coach admitted that it’s possible the young quarterback remains with the team. Richardson won’t just be hanging around, though, Steichen says he’s competing with Riley Leonard for the QB2 spot.
#Colts HC Shane Steichen on Daniel Jones’ progress: “I’m actually not surprised, just because of the way he works.”
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) May 27, 2026
Why let Anthony Richardson Sr. get reps amid a trade request? “Well, there’s the potential that he could be (here). …”
AR has *not* rescinded his trade request. pic.twitter.com/t27PZuR8I4
Shane Steichen leaves door open for Anthony Richardson being Colts QB2
That's certainly an interesting development since Richardson was staying away from the team during the early part of the offseason program, because of a possible trade. However, a move hasn’t materialized yet, so the young quarterback came ready to work.
With Indianapolis currently being down a quarterback, they welcomed Richardson back in, and he could end up with the important role of backup quarterback. That spot is especially important for the Colts this offseason because of Jones’ recovery from a ruptured Achilles.
While Jones is determined to be in the starting lineup in Week 1, which would be nine months since the injury, the typical timeline for torn Achilles isn’t on his side. If he isn’t ready to go for training camp in August and the start of the regular season in September, Indianapolis might have to turn to its backup.
That could very well be Richardson, if he beats out Leonard for the job. That would be a wild development, because if Richardson starts a game again for the Colts, anything could happen. While Indy is very clearly committed to Jones to the tune of $88 million, Richardson playing well and winning games could start some conversations.
A lot has to happen before any of that takes place, but the Colts made it clear on Wednesday that they are leaving the door cracked for Richardson to find his way back into the starting lineup.
Add us as a preferred source on Google