Anthony Richardson Granted Permission to Seek Trade as Colts Commit to Daniel Jones

27 February 2026 Sports

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Anthony Richardson Sr., once heralded as a franchise quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, has been given the green light to pursue a trade as the team shifts its focus to veteran signal-caller Daniel Jones. The decision comes after a challenging period marked by injuries and a preseason competition that saw Jones secure the starting role.

Richardson, selected fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled with durability, appearing in only two games last season due to injury setbacks. His agent, Deiric Jackson, confirmed to ESPN that the Colts have officially allowed Richardson, 23, to explore trade opportunities. With one year remaining on his rookie contract, the quarterback is now seeking a fresh start elsewhere.

The Colts’ transition to Daniel Jones reflects a strategic move to stabilize the quarterback position. Jones capitalized on his opportunity, leading Indianapolis to an impressive 8-2 record in the first ten games of the 2025 regular season. His performance solidified the team’s confidence in him as the primary starter moving forward.

Richardson’s career trajectory has been closely watched since his high draft selection. The Colts initially envisioned him as their long-term solution under center, but injuries and inconsistent play have complicated that vision. The team’s decision to pivot to Jones underscores the high stakes and rapid shifts common in NFL quarterback battles.

Fans and analysts alike will be monitoring where Richardson lands next, as his combination of athleticism and arm strength still holds promise. The Colts’ move also highlights the broader NFL trend of teams balancing veteran experience with youthful potential.

For more on NFL player transactions and team strategies, visit the NFL official site and the NFL Players Association. The Colts’ organizational updates are available through the Indianapolis Colts official website. To understand the contractual frameworks governing rookie deals, see the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement.

As the 2026 season approaches, Richardson’s next chapter remains unwritten, but the permission to seek a trade signals a new direction for both player and franchise.

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Marcus Reed follows major U.S. leagues, college sports and big events with an eye for the business, culture and community stories that live beyond the scoreboard.
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