Colts’ Anthony Richardson brushes off lingering trade request after QB2 promotion

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced Thursday that Anthony Richardson will be Daniel Jones’ backup during the 2026 season. The 24-year-old earned the QB2 position over Riley Leonard after the two competed throughout training camp and preseason.

Following Thursday’s practice, Richardson was asked about his new role.

“I was honored,” he said. “I was blessed. I’m just blessed to continue to find a way in this league. Continue to find my way on the roster. I’m just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2, and I’m just ready to work. I’m just willing to work for this team and just provide my best self for this squad to just help us win.”

Richardson also made it clear that his attention is no longer centered on the trade request he made earlier in the offseason, after it became apparent that Indianapolis intended to move forward with Jones as its starter.

“I’m here,” he said. “I’m not really thinking about that. I haven’t talked to my agent about that in a minute, honestly. Since Day 1 of camp, I’ve been trying to prepare myself to be the backup for Daniel. I got granted that today, so that’s my main focus.”

Anthony Richardson Sr. on being named the #Colts’ backup QB:

“I’m honored. … I’m just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2.”

But what about the trade request?

“I’m here. I’m not really thinking about that. I haven’t talked to my agent about that …” pic.twitter.com/uRHSXLcNGy

— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) September 3, 2026

The Colts had given Richardson permission to pursue a trade, but no deal materialized. His value had declined following an inconsistent start to his NFL career, multiple injuries and the loss of his starting role. Richardson has made 15 career starts and owns an 8-7 record as an NFL starter. The 2023 No. 4 overall pick is also entering the final year of his rookie contract.

His preseason performance ultimately helped him secure the backup position. Richardson completed 21 of 33 passes for 249 yards across three exhibition games, throwing one interception without a touchdown. Leonard completed 20 of 42 attempts for 199 yards, also without a touchdown, while throwing two interceptions.

Richardson also provided more production as a runner. In the preseason opener, he carried six times for 53 yards and a touchdown. His ability to extend plays also turned several potential negative situations into positive gains for Indianapolis.

Now, rather than continuing to focus on his earlier trade request, Richardson is concentrating on his new role behind Jones. His immediate objective is to make the most of whatever opportunities come his way as the Colts’ No. 2 quarterback.

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