Five potential Anthony Richardson trade destinations

Less than three years after being selected No. 4 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, quarterback Anthony Richardson's time with the Indianapolis Colts could be nearing its end.

On Thursday, ESPN Colts reporter Stephen Holder shared that the organization has granted Richardson permission to seek a trade as it works out a long-term extension with incumbent starter Daniel Jones, who revived his career in Indianapolis last season before suffering a season-ending torn Achilles in Week 14.

Richardson, 23, only appeared in two blowouts last season, playing 14 snaps. Over his first two seasons, Richardson struggled with accuracy, including completing an alarming 47.7 percent of his attempts in 2024, when he started 11 games. But with an explosive arm and dynamic ability as a runner, there should be a market for Richardson, who is set to play on the fourth-year of his rookie contract, making him worth a flier for QB-needy teams.

Below, we take a look at five franchises that should explore adding Richardson this offseason.

1. Arizona Cardinals

A divorce from quarterback Kyler Murray appears imminent, giving the Cardinals an opening at the position and Richardson a realistic opportunity of earning the starting role. He'd also be a cost-effective option considering Arizona would have a dead cap hit of either $54.7M or $77.3M if it released Murray, per Spotrac, leaving it with little financial wiggle room to lure free agents.

Richardson would have a promising core to work alongside, including tight end Trey McBride and wideouts Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, who notched his first 1,000-yard season in 2025.

2. Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins are another team that may be in the market for a cheap starting quarterback option as they look for ways out from Tua Tagovailoa's contract. An offense built around running back De'Von Achane and Richardon's legs could be difficult to defend, giving Miami a chance to establish an identity under first-year head coach Jeff Hafley.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

Aaron Rodgers might be Plan A for the Steelers and head coach Mike McCarthy, but they owe it to themselves to explore all options. Acquiring Richardson would represent a massive change. Per Pro Football Reference, in 2025, Pittsburgh ranked last in intended air yards per pass attempt (5.9). The Colts ranked first in intended air yards in 2024, with Richardson averaging 12 air yards per attempt, according to NFL Pro data.

4. Minnesota Vikings

It would make more sense for the Vikings to peruse the veteran free agent (or trade) market to find competition for J.J. McCarthy, but if nothing materializes on that front, a hungry Richardson would be suitable as a challenger for QB1. Last off-season's competition between Richardson and Jones in Indianapolis worked out pretty well, and it might work for the Vikings, too.

5. Kansas City Chiefs

Teams like the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets need a quarterback,  but Richardson would arguably be better served latching onto a stable franchise for a season and potentially getting a better starting opportunity in 2027. He wouldn't challenge Patrick Mahomes for the starting role in Kansas City, but with the three-time Super Bowl MVP rehabbing from a Week 15 torn ACL, Richardson would be a valuable insurance policy if Mahomes is not ready for the start of 2026.

And if any coach has the ability to get a package of plays together that maximizes Richardson's unique skill set, Andy Reid would have to be at (or near) the top of the list. Even with a fully healthy Mahomes, that would be extremely beneficial.