Full Breakdown
Anthony Richardson Returns to Colts Amid Trade Talk
5/9/2026, 8:29:03 PM
Core Situation
Quarterback Anthony Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, returned after a two-week absence. While his future remains uncertain, he joined the Colts’ voluntary community work on Monday and is cleared to resume football pending vision clearance. His role on the depth chart remains to be determined.
Background & Context
Richardson entered the league as a highly touted prospect but lost the starting job to veteran Daniel Jones during his rookie season. He is seeking a trade while recovering from a fractured orbital bone sustained in a pre-game accident on Oct. 12, which caused a right-eye injury.
Timeline
- Oct. 12, 2023: Pre-game accident causing fractured orbital bone and right-eye injury.
- Early May 2024: Two-week absence while exploring trade options.
- Mon, May 6, 2024: Returns to voluntary work, indicating clearance.
- Fri, May 10, 2024: Coach Steichen comments on status, no roster decision.
Key Figures
Anthony Richardson remains the focal point of trade talks. Head coach Shane Steichen, who oversees roster decisions, addressed Richardson’s condition but avoided specifics about backup competition, notably with 2025 sixth-round pick Riley Leonard. Daniel Jones stays the starter.
Data & Statistics
Drafted No. 4 in 2023; suffered a fractured orbital bone in the right eye; cleared for vision activities; missed two weeks in May.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Steichen said Richardson is back, working on fundamentals and throwing with teammates. He noted the vision clearance is satisfactory and that the organization will assess the quarterback situation as the season approaches, with decisions evolving in the coming months.
Why It Matters / Impact
Richardson’s desire for a trade and unresolved backup status affect the Colts’ quarterback depth chart. The uncertainty also leaves the team without a clear plan for the backup quarterback position.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The Colts have not disclosed any trade talks or a clear backup plan for Richardson. Steichen avoided confirming competition with Riley Leonard, leaving the roster outlook ambiguous.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s back in the fold right now. That part’s been good,” — Shane Steichen, Colts head coach
- “He’s working, going through his fundamentals, details, out there throwing with the guys. And that’s where it’s at right now.” — Shane Steichen, Colts head coach
- “Right now, we’re in May. We’ll see how it goes, obviously, with all that,” — Shane Steichen, Colts head coach
- “But [Richardson’s] working. He’s here. He’s in good spirits. He’s cleared to play with the vision stuff, so that part’s good.” — Shane Steichen, Colts head coach
What’s Next
The team will monitor Richardson’s progress through May and training camp, with roster decisions expected as the preseason nears. Any trade talks remain undisclosed.
