Colts Make $22.5 Million Decision on QB Anthony Richardson Ahead of 2026 Season
The Indianapolis Colts have declined the fifth-year option on quarterback Anthony Richardson, avoiding a $22.5 million guaranteed salary in 2027. Despite his elite physical tools and promising flashes, Richardson has struggled with injuries, accuracy, and consistency, appearing in only 17 games over three seasons. The move signals the team's lack of confidence in his development and opens the door for a trade or a prove-it season in 2026.
- ▪The Colts declined Anthony Richardson's fifth-year option, which would have guaranteed him approximately $22.5 million in 2027.
- ▪Richardson has played in just 17 games over three seasons, with more interceptions than touchdown passes and ongoing durability concerns.
- ▪Richardson has requested a trade and skipped offseason activities, indicating his desire to leave Indianapolis.
- ▪Teams like the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Minnesota Vikings could be potential trade destinations for Richardson.
- ▪Coaches Kevin O'Connell and Sean McVay are seen as potential fits for Richardson due to their success developing young quarterbacks.
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By Rowan Fisher-ShottonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.Drafted No. 4 overall in 2023 by the Indianapolis Colts, Anthony Richardson entered the NFL as one of the most physically gifted quarterback prospects in recent memory. At 6-foot-4, 244 pounds, with elite rushing ability and a rocket arm, he was billed as a franchise-altering dual-threat, and the early flashes were promising.In his first four NFL starts, he completed 59.5% of his passes for 577 yards with three TDs to just one INT, plus 136 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, averaging 5.4 yards per carry.
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