Is it time for the Colts to trade Anthony Richardson?

By: Jake Rajala

Anthony Richardson has been on a roller coaster since he was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts fourth overall in 2023. He went 2-2 in his rookie season by way of three passing touchdowns to one interception. He also had an 59.5 completion percentage. The yawning machine took a step back last season. He only managed to throw 8 passing touchdowns to 12 interceptions. He did run for 499 rushing yards and six touchdowns last season, so he showed to be somewhat of a threat running the ball. With that said, I’d love to see the Colts keep him.

He is still 22 years old. He also has the perfect coach for him in Shane Steichen, who oversaw Jalen Hurts in Philly. He reminds me of Taysom Hill, except Anthony has a better deep ball. His deep ball reminds me of the deep ball by the dual threat QBs in Russell Wilson and Michael Vick.

I’d love to see Richardson do more read option work with Jonathan Taylor, who just happens to be a Top-5 RB. Similar to Hill, Richardson can be a threat in red zone with his legs.

Just because I don’t want the Colts to trade Richardson, doesn’t mean I believe Anthony is ready to start in 2025. I’d like to see how Daniel Jones stacks up to Anthony. Of course, Jones struggled to get on his feet in the big apple.

Richardson is far from the only young QB to struggle early in their career. Sam Darnold, Kirk Cousins, and Geno Smith took at least a few seasons to blossom. Josh Allen, who has a similar skillet as Richardson, only threw 10 TDs to 12 ints as a rookie.

I don’t believe that the Colts should accept a first-round pick for Richardson. I’d say the Colts should accept a trade where a team offers numerous first-round picks for him. However, I don’t see a team making that proposal.

If Richardson doesn’t grow into an above average QB, I believe he could have a role similar to Hill. He can thrive in rotating as a QB for read-option and QB power.