The search for a new home for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is proving to be a more drawn-out process than anticipated. While the popular reality television show of a similar name often culminates in swift decisions, Richardson’s situation is unfolding at a different pace. He received permission to explore trade options earlier in the offseason, but as of now, no definitive agreement has materialized.
While no trade is immediately on the horizon, speculation points to the Green Bay Packers as a team to watch as the market for quarterbacks continues to evolve. With the bulk of free agency concluded, many teams have seen their preferred options at the quarterback position come off the board. This leaves several franchises contemplating their remaining choices, potentially opening the door for Richardson’s situation to gain momentum. Whether he is envisioned as a backup or a potential starter, the Colts’ valuation of the young quarterback remains undisclosed. Meanwhile, they have secured Daniel Jones for their immediate future.
Richardson is slated to begin his fourth NFL season, yet he is only 23 years old. This makes him just one year older than Fernando Mendoza, who is widely projected to be the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Richardson’s talent is undeniable, evidenced by his selection as the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. With further professional experience, he could follow in the footsteps of quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Geno Smith, who successfully revitalized their careers by transitioning to new teams.
As the free agency period winds down, several potential landing spots emerge for Anthony Richardson.
Potential Trade Destinations for Anthony Richardson
Here’s an examination of teams that could be attractive destinations for Anthony Richardson:
Green Bay Packers
The Packers are a team that warrants close attention regarding Richardson’s future, according to reports. This interest is understandable given recent personnel changes. The team recently saw backup quarterback Malik Willis depart to assume a starting role with the Miami Dolphins. Willis’s success in Green Bay, where he benefited from the team’s established infrastructure, allowed him to secure a significant three-year, $67.5 million contract in free agency.
There’s a possibility that Head Coach Matt LaFleur could replicate a similar development with Richardson. He possesses the mobility and a strong arm that LaFleur could work to cultivate. Even if Richardson only realizes a portion of his potential, it would represent a worthwhile investment for the Packers, significantly bolstering their backup quarterback situation. Regardless of Richardson’s outcome, Jordan Love remains the undisputed starting quarterback for the Packers.
Arizona Cardinals
If one LaFleur brother shows interest, it’s worth considering the other. Mike LaFleur, now the head coach in Arizona, faces a different quarterback landscape than his counterpart in Green Bay. The Cardinals do not currently have a clear long-term answer at quarterback. Their immediate plan appears to be moving forward with Jacoby Brissett as the starter, backed up by Gardner Minshew. While Willis was a potential target for the Cardinals, pivoting to Richardson is a viable alternative.
Whether Richardson would serve as a backup or compete for the starting job, this season represents a crucial evaluation period for Arizona. If Richardson struggles, the Cardinals would be well-positioned to pursue a top quarterback prospect in the 2027 NFL Draft. Conversely, if he thrives, the Cardinals would establish a strong foundation for future success. This type of low-risk, high-reward move aligns with the strategic direction the team should be pursuing at this juncture.
Los Angeles Rams
While Matthew Stafford is expected to return for the 2026 season, creating no immediate starting opportunity for Richardson barring unforeseen circumstances, the Rams’ organizational structure presents an appealing environment. Working under veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford and Head Coach Sean McVay would offer Richardson the same caliber of learning experience that contributed to Sam Darnold’s career resurgence.
Darnold found success learning from Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco and Kevin O’Connell in Minnesota. Richardson could potentially embark on a similar redemption arc with a stint in Los Angeles.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The future plans of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers remain uncertain, creating a challenging situation for the Steelers. With free agency largely concluded, there has been no definitive statement from Rodgers regarding his intentions for the 2026 season. It is unclear whether Pittsburgh would have pursued quarterbacks like Kyler Murray or Malik Willis in free agency, but they are now in a precarious position.
Given the lack of clarity and the absence of a clear quarterback solution emerging from the 2026 NFL Draft, the Steelers might find it more advantageous to acquire Richardson via a trade, potentially parting with a draft pick. The franchise appears to be in NFL purgatory, and it would behoove them to commit to a clear direction, for better or worse.
Cleveland Browns
A recurring theme among quarterback-needy teams this offseason is the scarcity of established, franchise-caliber quarterbacks available. With the exception of perhaps the Las Vegas Raiders, finding a quarterback worthy of handing the reins to has proven difficult. Todd Monken, the new offensive coordinator, is not tied to any of Cleveland’s current quarterbacks. He has the latitude to reset the situation and forge his own path forward, potentially through a trade for Richardson.
Monken previously coached Lamar Jackson to one of his two MVP awards, and some argue he deserved a third. While that level of immediate success is not necessarily expected from Richardson, the prospect of unlocking his raw talent could be well worth the acquisition cost for the Browns.
