Colts Name Anthony Richardson Backup QB Behind Daniel Jones

Key points

• Shane Steichen announced on September 3, 2026, that Anthony Richardson is the Colts' backup quarterback.
• Richardson won the competition against Riley Leonard, with preseason performance cited as the key differentiator.
• Richardson completed 21 of 33 passes for 250 yards and one interception in the preseason, according to Colts Wire.
• Richardson requested a trade this offseason but remained with the Colts after no deal was reached.
• The Colts declined Richardson’s fifth-year option, making him a pending free agent after the 2026 season.
• Richardson has started 15 games in his career, completing 50.6% of passes with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Background

Anthony Richardson was drafted fourth overall by the Colts in 2023 but struggled to meet expectations, starting only 15 games in three seasons. He suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in 2023 and an eye injury in 2025, which led to his placement on injured reserve. Daniel Jones took over starting duties in 2025 but suffered an Achilles tear, leading to a brief stint by Philip Rivers. Richardson’s trade request this offseason failed to materialize, and general manager Chris Ballard confirmed he would remain with the team. The Colts have historically carried multiple quarterbacks, including a brief unretirement of Rivers, to manage depth and injury concerns.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and WISH-TV emphasized Richardson’s gratitude and readiness to work, highlighting his positive attitude despite the setback from his draft status. ProFootballRumors.com noted the uncertainty surrounding Richardson’s future due to the declined fifth-year option and the presence of Riley Leonard as a developmental option. Colts Wire focused on the technical aspects of the decision, citing Richardson’s efficiency in preseason games and his ability to extend plays, which Steichen and GM Chris Ballard viewed as critical. While all sources agree on the outcome, they differ in emphasis: some focus on Richardson’s personal response, others on the strategic implications for the Colts’ quarterback depth, and others on the specific performance metrics that influenced the decision.

Why it matters

This decision impacts the Colts’ quarterback depth and future planning. Richardson’s role as backup provides stability behind Daniel Jones but also signals that the Colts are not fully committed to him as a long-term starter. The declined fifth-year option means Richardson will become a free agent after the 2026 season, potentially affecting the team’s salary cap and roster flexibility. Additionally, the presence of Riley Leonard as a developmental option suggests the Colts are investing in future quarterback options, which could influence their draft strategy and long-term planning. For Richardson, this role offers a chance to prove himself in a backup capacity, potentially improving his market value or securing a future role elsewhere.

What to watch

Richardson will serve as the backup quarterback for the 2026 season, with the opportunity to earn more playing time if Daniel Jones is injured or underperforms. The Colts will monitor Richardson’s performance throughout the season, which could influence their decision on whether to retain him or pursue other options in the 2027 draft. Riley Leonard will continue to develop as a backup option, potentially competing for more playing time in the future. The team’s quarterback depth will be closely watched, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Richardson’s contract status and the potential for injuries to Daniel Jones.