Richardson's Rollercoaster Ride: A Glimpse into His NFL Journey
Richardson's Quest for a New Team and His Current Standing
Despite reports of his request for a trade during the offseason, Anthony Richardson, the Indianapolis Colts' signal-caller, has not yet found a new home. The 24-year-old, a fourth overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, is now entering his fourth professional season. His tenure has been characterized by a series of physical setbacks, inconsistent play, and past scrutiny regarding his leadership capabilities. Experts believe his current trade value hovers around a mid-to-late-round draft pick.
Brad Gagnon's Predictions: Where Could Richardson Land?
According to Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report, Richardson could be on the move during the upcoming training camp. Gagnon identifies several potential suitors, including the Arizona Cardinals, especially if Jacoby Brissett's contract dispute escalates. The New York Jets are another possibility, particularly if they conclude that Geno Smith is not their long-term solution at quarterback. Additionally, teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys, or Carolina Panthers might consider acquiring Richardson as a strategic, long-term option for the 2027 season.
A History of Setbacks: Richardson's Injury Record
Richardson's career has been plagued by injuries. In 2023, his season was cut short by a concussion in Week 2, followed by a shoulder injury in Week 5. The 2024 season saw him sidelined with a hip injury in Week 4 and later, back and foot issues in Week 16, again ending his season prematurely. A bizarre incident in 2025 involved a resistance band breaking during pregame warmups in Week 6, resulting in a broken orbital bone that prematurely concluded his third season.
Analyzing Richardson's Performance Statistics
His statistics reflect the challenges he has faced. In 2023, he played 4 games, completing 59.5% of his passes for 3 touchdowns and 1 interception, alongside 4 rushing touchdowns. The 2024 season saw him in 11 games, with a 47.7% completion rate, 8 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and 6 rushing touchdowns. In 2025, he only appeared in two games before his season-ending injury.
Financial Commitments: Richardson's Contract Details
As per Spotrac, Anthony Richardson's contract contributes $10.8 million to the Colts' 2026 salary cap, highlighting the financial implications of his current deal.
Indianapolis Colts' Quarterback Roster: A Competitive Landscape
Richardson is currently vying for the backup quarterback position with Riley Leonard. However, given Daniel Jones's recovery from an Achilles injury, there's a possibility that the backup might step into the QB1 role at the start of the 2026 season. The Colts' quarterback room includes Daniel Jones, who led the team to a 7-1 start in 2025 before his Achilles injury, and Riley Leonard, who appeared in five games as a rookie. Easton Stick, a 2019 NFL Draft pick, is also on the roster, though he hasn't played since 2023.
Arizona Cardinals' Quarterback Lineup: Familiar Faces
Interestingly, all of the Arizona Cardinals' current quarterbacks have previously played for the Colts. Jacoby Brissett, the probable starter, is seeking more than $1.5 million in guaranteed money for 2026, making his training camp status uncertain. Gardner Minshew, a seasoned journeyman with 47 career starts, could step in if Brissett's situation deteriorates. Kedon Slovis, who has played in two NFL games, rounds out their quarterback roster.
New York Jets' Quarterback Dynamics: A Mix of Experience and Youth
The New York Jets acquired veteran Geno Smith in a trade, who had a challenging 2025 season with the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith, now 35, is back where his NFL journey began, carrying a $3.3 million cap hit according to Spotrac. The Jets also have Bailey Zappe, a 27-year-old with 15 NFL game appearances, and Brady Cook, who started four games for the Jets in 2025. Cade Klubnik, a 4th-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, represents their future.
Pittsburgh Steelers' Quarterback Situation: A Reunion and New Talent
The Pittsburgh Steelers see the reunion of Aaron Rodgers with coach Mike McCarthy, a duo that previously secured a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers. Rodgers, at 42, is likely in his final season, having led Pittsburgh to a 10-6 record in 2025 starts. Mason Rudolph, 31, has spent five of his six NFL seasons with the Steelers, starting 19 games. Drew Allar, a 3rd-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, is also part of their roster.
Dallas Cowboys' Quarterback Depth: Established and Developing Talent
The Dallas Cowboys are led by Dak Prescott, 33, entering his 11th season as their starting quarterback. Sam Howell, a fifth-year player, was Washington's starter in 2023 and now provides depth. Joe Milton III, in his third year, has appeared in five NFL games, adding to the Cowboys' quarterback options.
Carolina Panthers' Quarterback Overview: Building for the Future
Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is now in his fourth season with the Carolina Panthers. While the Panthers haven't achieved a winning record with Young at quarterback, they did clinch the NFC South in 2025 with an 8-9 record. Kenny Pickett, a fifth-year player, has 27 NFL starts under his belt. Will Grier, 31, who started two games for Carolina in 2019, has since moved between teams. Haynes King joined the Panthers as an undrafted free agent, rounding out their quarterback corps. All ages are noted as of the start of the NFL regular season.
