The quarterback situation for the Indianapolis Colts this year has been a whirlwind of uncertainty. Daniel Jones, Philip Rivers, and Riley Leonard have each taken turns in the spotlight, but one player who was seen as a major investment hasn’t lived up to expectations: Anthony Richardson Sr.

With the offseason approaching, the Colts face a critical decision on what to do with Richardson moving forward. Here are three potential outcomes that could unfold:

Trade Him

Trading Richardson might be a difficult decision, but it’s a very real possibility if he isn’t given the starting job in 2026. His agent, Dieric Jackson, may push for more than just a backup role for a second consecutive season.

At just 23 years old, Richardson still has plenty of football left in him, and he may be seeking a fresh start to prove himself. If the Colts decide to extend Jones’ contract and invest in the former Duke Blue Devil, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Richardson and his representatives would request a trade.

If this happens, it would be a tough blow for the Colts. They used a fourth-overall pick on Richardson, and they might not get much in return due to his injury history and inconsistent performance. Additionally, if another team unlocks his potential, it would be a significant setback for the Colts and reinforce the idea that they can’t get their quarterback situation right.

He’s a Backup Again

This scenario is arguably worse than trading Richardson, as at least the Colts would get something for him in a trade. However, if he stays and Jones starts again, it would be another wasted year for Richardson.

The time for Richardson to learn how to be a professional quarterback by sitting behind a veteran needs to come to an end. He’s entering his fourth NFL season, and while he’s only 23, having just 15 starts so far is concerning.

This outcome is less likely, but it’s still a possibility. If it happens, it could lead to questions the Colts don’t want to answer. For example, “Did the Colts overestimate Richardson?” or “Is he just a bust?” It also raises the question of where Riley Leonard would fit on the depth chart if Richardson remains on the roster without starting.

Another lost season for Richardson would be detrimental, and keeping him as a backup would only compound the issue.

Let Him Get One More Chance to Start in 2026

My personal favorite option: give Richardson one last chance to start in 2026 after learning under the likes of Jones and Rivers. While he has struggled, the Colts previously emphasized patience and believed in his potential. If they want to live up to that promise, giving him a shot at starting makes sense.

The Colts have a strong supporting cast, including running back Jonathan Taylor, wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, and Alec Pierce, and tight end Tyler Warren. These players could help a quarterback improve his accuracy and offensive execution.

Of course, there are no guarantees. There’s always a chance Richardson could fail again if given the starting job. But the Colts can’t know that unless they commit to starting Jones. This would be Richardson’s final opportunity, but it might create the urgency needed to bring out the franchise quarterback they originally saw in him.

Playing is the only way he can develop, and the Colts understand this fully.

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