Anthony Richardson's Agent Talks Colts QB's Trade Request, 'Abundantly Clear' Message From GM

Despite quarterback Anthony Richardson requesting a trade over the offseason, his agent does not expect one to materialize during the 2026 NFL season.

Speaking to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, agent Deiric Jackson said, "[Colts general manager] Chris [Ballard] has made it abundantly clear Anthony is gonna be here. I don't think I have to call him and say hey it's off the table. I think it's understood. And the Colts are going to do what's in the best interest of the Colts."

Before the 2025 season, the Colts signed Daniel Jones in free agency, and he was ultimately named the starter ahead of Richardson.

Jones' arrival and a fractured orbital bone suffered by Richardson meant the 2023 No. 4 overall pick did not see any game action last season.

In February, Jackson told ESPN's Stephen Holder that the Colts had granted Richardson permission to seek a trade. However, nothing came of it, and Richardson remained on the roster throughout training camp and the preseason.

Richardson is the Colts' QB2 behind Jones, meaning he will step in should anything happen to Jones, who is coming off a torn Achilles, which he suffered back in December.

The 24-year-old Richardson is entering a contract year in 2026, meaning he will be free to sign elsewhere in free agency next offseason.

It is unclear how much value he will have, though, after not playing last season and mostly struggling over his first two seasons.

In 17 career games, including 15 starts, Richardson has an 8-7 record, and he has completed just 50.6 percent of his passes for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, while also rushing for 634 yards and 10 scores.

Perhaps the Colts' stance on Richardson will change once the trade deadline approaches if Jones shows he is in solid form and fully recovered from the torn Achilles, but for now, it looks like Richardson will play out the remainder of his contract in Indy.