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Colts Name Anthony Richardson Backup Quarterback

The move provides the Colts experienced insurance behind Daniel Jones as Richardson enters the final year of his rookie contract.

Overview

  • Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced Thursday that Anthony Richardson will be the team’s No. 2 quarterback and Riley Leonard will be listed as QB3.
  • Richardson earned the job after a season‑long competition that included split reps in training camp and three preseason games where he completed 21 of 33 passes for 249 yards.
  • Richardson requested a trade in February but remained with the team after general manager Chris Ballard publicly said Richardson would be a Colt this year and trade interest proved limited.
  • The decision keeps Richardson on the roster despite an October 2025 eye injury that sidelined him for two months and the Colts declining his 2027 fifth‑year option, which makes him a pending free agent.
  • The Colts prioritized short‑term depth behind a starter returning from major injury so Richardson could see significant playing responsibility if Daniel Jones has a setback and Riley Leonard remains a developmental option.