A former Top-5 draft pick could find himself in a different uniform for the 2026 season. Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback Anthony Richardson has been given permission to seek a trade away from the Colts, according to Stephen Holder. The 4th overall pick in the 2023 draft has been able to live up to hype that was surrounding him in Indianapolis, and it looks like he will get a fresh start.
NEWS: The Indianapolis Colts have given QB Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade given his uncertain future in Indy, ESPN has learned.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) February 26, 2026
Story upcoming on https://t.co/5nxkndQ3MZ.
Richardson has been battled with injuries and inconsistent play. Coming out of the University of Florida, his sample size on the field was extremely limited but he had a ton of upside because what he did show. He plays a lot like Josh Allen did early in his career for the Buffalo Bills, and maybe the Bills could be the team that gives Richardson the chance to work on his game as a backup.
Bills should strongly consider trading for Anthony Richardson from Colts
Richardson has the kind of mechanics that look very similar to what Allen had in his early days with Buffalo. He has a big arm and has the physical presence to make great plays with the ball in his hands. However, there is a bit of recklessness as well.
No one expects Richardson to start next season and quite frankly, he is the type of player that the Bills would benefit from having him as a backup to Allen. Their game is more similar than fans may think and the Bills are going to need to have a backup as Mitch Trubisky is set to hit free agency.
Richardson is only 23 years old and he needs to land with a team that can truly develop him into a starter. While having the right coach is extremely important, sometimes learning from one of the best quarterbacks in the game can be just as important.
Josh Allen is arguably the best quarterback in the NFL, and both his and Richardson’s play style are similar. Richardson would benefit from having Allen as a mentor and the Bills would not only solidify their backup spot, but they would get someone whose back is up against the wall and needs to prove that he can be a quality quarterback.
A trade between Buffalo and Indianapolis could easily be a swap of Day 2 or Day 3 picks that includes Richardson. Both teams would keep the same amount of draft picks, the Bills get their backup to Allen, and the Colts can officially move on from Richardson. It’s a win-win for everyone.