On the opening day of workouts at the 2026 NFL combine, it was announced that the Indianapolis Colts and quarterback Anthony Richardson have mutually decided to pursue a trade. This move follows Richardson losing the starting quarterback position to Daniel Jones last August and reflects a desire for a fresh start to revive his career. The search for Anthony Richardson ideal landing spots has become a major focus among analysts and NFL insiders.
Richardson, the Colts’ 2023 first-round pick (fourth overall), started 15 games during his rookie season. His development was hindered by injuries and a midseason benching. Viewed initially as a developmental quarterback, the Colts opted to start him from Week 1, a decision that general manager Chris Ballard may be reconsidering now. With Richardson eager to continue his growth, finding a team that matches his potential while allowing room to improve is crucial.
Top NFL Experts Suggest Best Destinations for Richardson
Several NFL analysts, including two former players and one ex-executive, have shared their thoughts on where Richardson would thrive next. Each proposed team offers distinct advantages that could help him regain his footing in the league.
Maurice Jones-Drew Recommends Rams or 49ers for Offensive Tutelage
Maurice Jones-Drew believes Richardsons’ career could be revitalized by joining either the Los Angeles Rams or the San Francisco 49ers. In Jones-Drew’s view, Richardson’s stint in Indianapolis was turbulent, and a change of scenery under a strategic coaching staff is key.
Richardson could be the NFL’s next reclamation project if he lands in the right spot after his tumultuous stint in Indy,
Jones-Drew wrote.
Learning under [Kyle] Shanahan or Sean McVay in Los Angeles could help Richardson turn his career around and potentially earn another chance to eventually start.
– Maurice Jones-Drew, NFL Analyst
Jones-Drew highlighted Kyle Shanahan’s influence on Sam Darnold, who spent a year as a backup before emerging as a Super Bowl winner with Seattle. However, Richardson’s limited game experience compared to Darnold’s raises concerns about another year mostly on the sidelines. Still, learning from innovative offensive minds might provide the vital development he needs.
David Carr Suggests Green Bay as a Nurturing Backup Role
Former quarterback David Carr sees potential for Richardson to grow within the Green Bay Packers’ organization, particularly as a backup behind Jordan Love. Carr draws parallels to Malik Willis, who matured considerably over two seasons backing up under Matt LaFleur.
Malik Willis developed greatly as a backup for two seasons under Matt LaFleur in Green Bay, and now, he’s in line to earn a second starting opportunity in free agency,
Carr noted.
If Willis does sign with another team, Green Bay would be a great fit for Richardson, who would no doubt benefit learning from LaFleur and working behind Jordan Love.
– David Carr, Former NFL Quarterback
Although Richardson would not immediately compete for the starting role due to Love’s lucrative contract, this scenario allows him to gain valuable experience in a run-heavy offense while preparing for a possible starting position elsewhere in 2027.
Marc Ross Identifies the Rams as a Balanced Development Environment
Marc Ross frames Richardson’s situation as complex, needing game-time experience but not yet ready to lead a team to consistent wins. He sees the Los Angeles Rams as ideal because they combine strong leadership with opportunity.
He has so little playing experience that he needs to get on the field in order to develop, yet he still is not ready to play at a consistent enough level to produce wins as a starter. Thus, the Rams would be an ideal landing spot.
– Marc Ross, NFL Analyst
With Matthew Stafford planning to continue playing, Richardson could benefit from mentorship under a former Super Bowl champion, stepping in if injuries arise. McVay’s offense would provide an exciting platform for Richardson’s dynamic skill set.
Jeffri Chadiha Views the New York Jets as an Opportunity to Start
Jeffri Chadiha believes the Jets present the most realistic chance for Richardson to reclaim a starting role immediately, especially given their recent struggles at the quarterback position. The Jets have previously hoped Justin Fields could solidify the job, but Richardson’s rookie contract makes him an affordable, high-upside option.
The Jets make the most sense,
Chadiha wrote.
They just spent last season hoping Justin Fields could turn into a reliable starter. Richardson will cost a lot less, since he’s still on a rookie deal, and he brings a skill set similar to that of Fields and Tyrod Taylor, last year’s backup… Adding a cost-effective quarterback like Richardson also would give this team more financial flexibility to keep building for the future.
– Jeffri Chadiha, NFL Analyst
Richardson’s acquisition would involve a cap hit of just over $5 million, an economical price in today’s NFL. The Jets’ constant search for a franchise quarterback might offer Richardson a meaningful shot at leading the team again, with the added benefit of reconnecting with wide receiver A.D. Mitchell.
Significance and What Lies Ahead for Anthony Richardson
Richardson’s trade request signifies a pivotal moment in his young career. At just 23 years old, he has shown flashes of talent but has faced setbacks that slowed his progress. His next team will need to balance immediate support with long-term development, ensuring Richardson gains both field experience and effective coaching. Whether in a mentorship role behind a starter or stepping into a leadership position, the quarterback’s future will depend on finding a system that leverages his unique abilities while nurturing his growth.
The evolving scenarios proposed by Maurice Jones-Drew, David Carr, Marc Ross, and Jeffri Chadiha underscore that Richardson’s comeback path is multifaceted. Each destination provides a different opportunity for resurgence, be it through expert offensive guidance, a patient backup role, or an immediate starter challenge. The coming months will reveal which franchise commits to rebuilding around Richardson, as he aims to transform his promise into sustained NFL success.
