The Indianapolis Colts have authorized quarterback Anthony Richardson to explore trade opportunities, placing the young former first-round draft pick on the market. This move creates a potential opening for teams seeking quarterback depth, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, who may be intrigued by Richardson’s unique skill set.
Richardson’s combination of size, athleticism, and a notably powerful throwing arm makes him one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in recent memory. However, inconsistency on the field and injuries have hindered his development, prompting a desire for a change of scenery. ESPN Colts beat writer Stephen Holder first broke the news regarding Richardson’s uncertain future in Indianapolis.
NEWS: The Indianapolis Colts have given QB Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade given his uncertain future in Indy, ESPN has learned.
Story upcoming on https://t.co/5nxkndQ3MZ.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) February 26, 2026
Career Performance and Challenges Facing Richardson
Selected fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson has appeared in 15 starts throughout his NFL tenure. His statistical production shows more interceptions (13) than touchdown passes (11), though he has contributed 10 rushing touchdowns. His performance has fluctuated dramatically, ranging from spectacular deep throws to costly errors.
At his peak, Richardson has displayed impressive athleticism and playmaking ability, highlighted in moments that showcase his dynamic skill set.
Unreal athleticism from Anthony Richardson.
📺: #HOUvsIND on CBS/Paramount+📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/HFc0kGr8ew
— NFL (@NFL) September 8, 2024
Despite his physical gifts, Richardson’s overall passing accuracy remains a concern. His career completion rate stands at just 50.6 percent across 350 pass attempts — a figure that lags behind all but one quarterback (Tim Tebow) with a comparable number of attempts since 2010. This below-average accuracy highlights his struggles in adapting to NFL-level passing demands.
Injury Setbacks and Limited Playing Time
Richardson spent nearly all of the 2025 season sidelined. Daniel Jones emerged as the Colts’ starting quarterback during this period, while Richardson endured a highly unusual injury. During pregame warmups, a resistance band snapped back and struck Richardson under his eye, fracturing his orbital bone. This freak accident severely limited his ability to contribute, resulting in just two pass attempts for the season.
Potential for Growth and Comparisons to Similar Players
Coming out of the University of Florida, Richardson entered the NFL with limited experience, having thrown only 393 college passes. His early difficulties align with expected growing pains for a raw talent. Comparisons have been drawn to Malik Willis, a former Liberty University quarterback who also faced initial struggles but recently became a sought-after free agent due to his upside.
Why the Steelers Might Consider Pursuing Richardson
Under head coach Mike McCarthy, who emphasizes offensive development, the Steelers could view Richardson as a worthwhile gamble. The cost to acquire him in a trade is expected to be minimal, and his contract remains affordable with a base salary of $1.145 million in the final year of his rookie deal. The decision on Richardson’s fifth-year option, due in May, will likely lean toward declining the option, either by the Colts or any new team.
Anthony Richardson is set to earn $5,385,549 in 2026. His fifth-year option decision for 2027 is due in early May as well. #Steelers #NFL
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) February 26, 2026
Previous Encounters and Strategic Considerations for Pittsburgh
Richardson has faced the Steelers only once, in a 2024 game where he left early due to injury. Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco substituted and steered the Colts to a narrow 27-24 win. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin later joked about his unsuccessful attempt to keep Flacco off the field during that matchup.
If veteran Aaron Rodgers decides to retire, Richardson could become a more attractive option for the Steelers at quarterback. Even if Rodgers returns, acquiring Richardson with a late-round draft pick would provide low-risk potential for the franchise’s future. Nonetheless, Richardson’s continued development remains uncertain, and his ability to reverse his career trajectory is far from guaranteed.
NEWS: The Indianapolis Colts have given QB Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade given his uncertain future in Indy, ESPN has learned.
Story upcoming on https://t.co/5nxkndQ3MZ.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) February 26, 2026
Unreal athleticism from Anthony Richardson.
📺: #HOUvsIND on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/HFc0kGr8ew— NFL (@NFL) September 8, 2024
Anthony Richardson is set to earn $5,385,549 in 2026. His fifth-year option decision for 2027 is due in early May as well. #Steelers #NFL
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) February 26, 2026
