Colts Replace Anthony Richardson, Daniel Jones in New 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 11:27 AM ET

Fans were ecstatic when the Indianapolis Colts selected Anthony Richardson with the fourth overall pick in 2023.

The Florida quarterback was compared to Buffalo Bills superstar Josh Allen in the sense that he wielded a unique combination of speed, power, and a rocket arm.

The only catch was that Richardson was an extremely raw prospect, so it would take a few years of seasoning and a bit of luck for these abilities to come to fruition.

Unfortunately, the polarizing quarterback has worn out his welcome in Indianapolis already with the team’s brass bringing in veteran signal caller Daniel Jones as competition.

Both Richardson and Jones have been mangled by the media throughout their careers, so there is a scenario where both get a chance to start this season and both squander the opportunity.

In this event, the Colts will likely have a poor record in a division that is ascending which could land them a top draft pick.

Matt Miller of ESPN released a 2026 NFL mock draft that had Indianapolis selecting a quarterback with the No. 11 pick.

It’s a guessing game as to which quarterbacks will ascend and drop this upcoming season, but Miller believes the Colts will draft LSU star Garrett Nussmeier.

“Nussmeier showed flashes in his first season as a starter, throwing for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions," Miller continued. "The son of Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, Garrett plays with fire and energy and isn't afraid to take chances. If he cuts down on his interceptions, Nussmeier has the velocity, accuracy and playmaking ability to move up draft boards,” he said.

This could be the exact quarterback the Colts need because right now they can’t even get the ball into their receivers’ hands.

Nussmeier may make some boneheaded decisions at times, but he has the potential to be an elite gunslinger.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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