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Colts' plan for Anthony Richardson seems more apparent than ever following the team's end-of-season press conferences

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Destin Adams | Last updated Jan 8, 2026 4:06 PM ET

When the Indianapolis Colts chose to use the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft on Anthony Richardson, they had high hopes for him to become the franchise quarterback they had long searched for. He's flashed some next-level talent, but has not been consistent enough for the Colts to rely on him as a full-time starter.

This led the Colts to sign Daniel Jones last off-season, and he ended up winning the starting job over Richardson. The team has made their intentions to re-sign Jones this offseason very clear. This leads many to wonder about Richardson's future in Indianapolis.

#Colts GM Chris Ballard says Anthony Richardson Sr. still has to "work through" his vision limitations. But adds that they'll see what the future holds for him when asked about his role with the franchise (or elsewhere).
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) January 8, 2026

Anthony Richardson's future with the Colts seems to be in serious danger

Since the season ended, head coach Shane Steichen, GM Chris Ballard, and owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon have all spoken with the media. One of the topics discussed with each of them was Richardson’s future. All three refused to commit to the QB as part of the team's long-term plans.

They all made it very clear that they wanted Jones back as the starter in 2026. All signs point towards that partnership contuining, and Richardson’s time with the Colts ending. At this point, I think it would be a shock if Richardson were still a member of the team when training camp arrives. I expect them to find a trade partner sometime over the coming months.

Ballard was even willing to talk about Riley Leonard's future with the team in more detail than Richardson. I think the team will plan to bring in another veteran quarterback to compete with Leonard to be Jones’ backup. With Jones recovering from a torn right Achilles tendon, they will certainly need a reliable backup. And at this point, it seems pretty clear that backup won't be Richardson.

#Colts GM Chris Ballard on if adding to the QB room was a possibility due to the uncertainty of Daniel Jones’ return to form:

“I’m very encouraged by Riley Leonard…I do think there’s something there. If Anthony [Richardson] doesn’t get to where we think he can be, Leonard QB2?” pic.twitter.com/FUQWkyIIUG
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) January 8, 2026

This story was originally published by A to Z Sports on Jan 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add A to Z Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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