Colts Shockwave: Indianapolis Grants QB Anthony Richardson Permission to Seek Blockbuster Trade—What It Means for the 2026 Season

Indianapolis — In a stunning development at the 2026 NFL Combine, the Indianapolis Colts and quarterback Anthony Richardson have mutually agreed to explore trade options, formally opening one of the most intriguing quarterback markets in recent memory. Drafted No. 4 overall in 2023, Richardson was once billed as the franchise’s long-term answer, but injuries derailed his trajectory. An orbital fracture suffered during pre-game warm-ups in Week 6 of the 2025 season ended a campaign that had already seen him lose the starting job to veteran Daniel Jones. Although team doctors have since cleared Richardson for football activities, lingering vision issues and Jones’s success left the 21-year-old in search of a fresh start. Sources tell NFL Network that Colts brass met with Richardson’s agent Thursday morning before granting permission to seek a trade. Yahoo Sports confirmed the report minutes later, noting that both sides believe a split is in “their best interest” less than three years after the quarterback arrived in Indianapolis. Why the timing matters • Combine buzz: General managers and agents are already gathered in Indianapolis, allowing face-to-face discussions that can accelerate trade negotiations. • Contract control: Richardson has two years left on his rookie deal, plus a fifth-year option, giving acquiring clubs cost certainty. • Medical clarity: Colts GM Chris Ballard confirmed this week that Richardson’s eye is “getting better” and that he is fully cleared to practice, easing concerns for potential suitors. Potential landing spots 1. Atlanta Falcons — Head coach Raheem Morris lacks a long-term answer under center and owns ample cap space. 2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — With Baker Mayfield headed to free agency, the Bucs could pivot to a high-ceiling dual-threat passer. 3. New Orleans Saints — Derek Carr’s contract is movable after 2026; Richardson could sit behind him for a season in Pete Carmichael’s QB-friendly scheme. 4. Denver Broncos — Sean Payton’s offense emphasizes mobility and vertical shots, traits that align with Richardson’s skill set. Stat snapshot • Career games: 17 (15 starts) • Passing: 2,400 yds, 11 TD, 13 INT, 50.6 % completion • Rushing: 634 yds, 10 TD What it means for the Colts Indianapolis appears poised to lock in Daniel Jones, who resurrected his career with 3,900 passing yards and a playoff appearance in 2025. Retaining former Duke star Riley Leonard as the developmental No. 2 would give the Colts cost-effective depth while freeing cap space previously earmarked for Richardson’s option year. Fantasy & betting ripple Richardson’s dual-threat upside makes him a potential league-winner if he lands in a scheme that leverages designed runs and deep play-action. Sportsbooks have already shifted 2026 MVP odds; keep an eye on live markets as rumors solidify. Bottom line Anthony Richardson’s combination of elite athleticism, 60-yard arm talent and untapped upside ensures that his phone will buzz early and often this week. Expect serious movement before free agency opens in mid-March, with the Colts seeking draft capital and the league’s quarterback carousel spinning faster than ever.