Ballard Confirms Richardson's Future
Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard addressed quarterback Anthony Richardson's future during his Tuesday press conference, stating, "He is going to be an Indianapolis Colt this year." The announcement comes after months of speculation following Richardson's trade request in February.
Ballard praised Richardson's growth and development, saying, "We forget how young he is sometimes. Really proud of his growth." He highlighted two specific moments from training camp that showed Richardson's poise: a two-minute drive against New England with 38 seconds left that put the team in field-goal range, and a similar drive during the Atlanta scrimmage. "It's been fun to watch Anthony's growth," Ballard added.
Richardson's Role and Performance
Ballard did not specify whether Richardson would serve as the backup behind Daniel Jones, deferring to head coach Shane Steichen. Steichen said Richardson is "in a good spot" with the team.
Richardson, 24, has been competing with Riley Leonard for the backup role. He has been splitting second-team reps with Leonard during the offseason program, though Leonard has seen slightly more work. Richardson has also been seen taking third-team reps at practice.
In preseason action, Richardson showed improvement. He went 6-for-6 on pass attempts of 10-plus air yards on Thursday, and his only interception came on a ball that bounced off his receiver's hands. He also lost a fumble on a 10-yard scramble but scored on a one-yard touchdown run.
The Colts appear to be giving Richardson ample opportunity to showcase himself, with plans for him to play the first half this week and the second half next week against Atlanta. Meanwhile, Daniel Jones will sit out, with the team being cautious with him as he recovers from an Achilles injury.
Praise as a Teammate
Ballard also lauded Richardson's character, calling him "a phenomenal teammate — and I don't use that word lightly." He noted that Richardson has never hung his head or gotten salty, even when he didn't win the job last year. "He likes to be around the team. He likes being part of the team," Ballard said.
Richardson's dedication was also highlighted by a story about him staying late to clean up after a pre-draft breakfast because it was "the right thing to do."
Uncertain Future Despite Ballard's Statement
Despite Ballard's comments, questions about Richardson's long-term future with the Colts persist. Assistant general manager Ed Dodds stressed the importance of having three quarterbacks on the roster, a lesson from last year when the team was banged up and brought Philip Rivers out of retirement. Richardson's trade request has gone nowhere, and while Ballard emphasized he still thinks Richardson has something to offer, some reports suggest his days in Indianapolis may be numbered.
Richardson's injury history, including an eye injury from a pre-game mishap with a resistance band, has also raised concerns. While a February report indicated he had regained full vision in his right eye, questions remain about his recovery.
Richardson was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft. His career has been marked by inconsistency, with a completion rate of 50.6% and struggles with timing and shotgun snaps. However, Ballard's comments reflect the team's current stance: Richardson will be a Colt this year.