Anthony Richardson named Colts backup QB after offseason trade request

The Indianapolis Colts have named Anthony Richardson their backup quarterback to open the 2026 NFL season. Colts coach Shane Steichen announced his decision during a news conference on Thursday, Sept. 3. "I thought he did some good things during camp," Steichen said of Richardson. "He's continued to

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The Indianapolis Colts have named Anthony Richardson their backup quarterback to open the 2026 NFL season.

Colts coach Shane Steichen announced his decision during a news conference on Thursday, Sept. 3.

"I thought he did some good things during camp," Steichen said of Richardson. "He's continued to develop and grow and learn and continue to get better."

Steichen added he was also impressed with third-string quarterback Riley Leonard's growth and that he is looking forward to both young quarterbacks getting an opportunity to improve their consistency through scout-team reps.

Richardson spoke to reporters about Steichen's decision shortly after it was levied. He communicated he felt "honored" to be chosen for the backup role and to have made the Colts'

53-man roster.

"I'm just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2," Richardson told reporters. "I'm just ready to work. I'm willing to work for the team and just provide my best self for this squad to help us win."

Richardson had previously requested a trade away from the Colts during the 2026 NFL offseason. The No. 4 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft was hoping to get a fresh start after starting just 15 games across his first three seasons in Indianapolis and losing the starting job to Daniel Jones in 2025.

But now, Richardson will look to continue his development with the Colts. And should Jones struggle in his return from a torn Achilles suffered last season, the 24-year-old could get a chance to make his first start since Week 16 of the 2024 NFL season.

Colts QB depth chart

Below is a look at the pecking order in Indianapolis' quarterback room:

Daniel Jones
Anthony Richardson
Riley Leonard

Leonard was Richardson's main competition for the backup job. The second-year quarterback completed 58.2% of his passes for 415 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in five games (one start) as a rookie. He also added 27 yards and two scores on six carries.

Richardson earned the backup job over Leonard after outperforming him in the preseason. Richardson completed 63.6% of his passes for 249 yards and an interception while Leonard completed just 47.6% of his passes for 199 yards and two interceptions.

Richardson (10 carries, 68 yards) also outproduced Leonard (six carries, 17 yards) on the ground.