Anthony Richardson is one of the biggest investments the Indianapolis Colts have made in the last few years. The quarterback from the Florida Gators was a first-round, fourth overall pick by the Colts in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Richardson played just four games for the Colts in his first season as a starting quarterback. In 2024, he played 11 games as the starting QB, but the Colts didn’t get the results they were looking for and failed to make the playoffs.
Last season, Richardson had to compete against Daniel Jones for the starting quarterback role, which he lost. He was the backup QB behind Jones. Unfortunately, his season didn’t last long because of an injury.
In October, during the team’s pregame warmup session, Richardson fractured the orbital bone in his eye. The following day, he was placed on injured reserve, and that marked the end of his 2025 season. Richardson played just two games.
The injury was severe, and Richardson had developed a problem with his vision because of it. As per James Boyd of The Athletic, Richardson recently regained full vision in his right eye.
“It’s trending in the right direction. Still got a ways to go,” Chris Ballard said. “But he’s cleared to play, and the eye’s getting better, so we just work from there.”
Even though Richardson is moving in the right direction and is on track to be game-ready when he fully recovers from the injury, he might not be playing for the Colts. As per multiple reports, the Colts have given the quarterback permission to seek a trade. Richardson has a pricey $10.8 million cap hit in 2026.
Colts GM Chris Ballard on Anthony Richardson’s Future
Indianapolis Colts’ general manager Chris Ballard was recently at the NFL Draft Combine. During his conversation with the reporters, he was asked about Richardson’s future with the Colts amid his recovery.
“He’s getting better,” he said. “I know he met with another specialist. He’s getting better and cleared to play football. I’m proud of Anthony, man. Here’s a guy that’s had to deal with a lot of injury stuff that happens.”
Ballard said that Richardson is a great teammate and the Colts appreciate that quality in him. Richardson always stays positive and looks to do the right thing for his team, which makes him a special player for the organization.
At the time, Ballard said that the final decision would be made later, and earlier today, they gave him permission to seek trade.
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