Well, well, well. Anthony Richardson ended his two-week holdout and is back in the building with the Indianapolis Colts for voluntary offseason workouts. While labeling it a “holdout” is cheeky, Richardson wasn’t overly keen to rejoin the team, but with no trade in sight and money and potential playing time on the line, he decided to acquiesce. This may seem minor now, but it could add some serious intrigue to the Colts’ quarterback room in 2026.
All of this comes with the caveat that the Colts don’t
find a trade partner in the meantime, but as it currently stands, Richardson will be part of the Colts this year. This could all be moot if that happens. What seems more likely, however, is that there could be a quarterback battle brewing. One must first ask, will Daniel Jones be ready to go? A torn Achilles is no joke, and watching Jayson Tatum sit out Game 7 in the first round of the NBA playoffs might have people hesitant to rush him back. These injuries take time, and there is no guarantee he will be available to start the season.
If that’s the case, there will be more reps available for Riley Leonard and Richardson. Since Richardson is persona non grata with Shane Steichen, Leonard appears to have the inside track. That doesn’t mean he keeps it. This is a results driven league. Fail to produce and the leash is short. With Jones on the shelf, this might be Richardson’s best shot at a second chance. As a forgotten man, Richardson could shock the organization and fans with a comeback. The stage is set for some potential drama this offseason. Oh goodie…
In sports, anything can happen. Anthony Richardson’s time with the Colts appeared over, and at the end of the day, it might be. This, however, is a step that needed to be taken for there to be a chance. While the odds still appear long that he gets first-team reps or starts Week 1, they aren’t out of the realm of possibility. Looking back a month ago, that didn’t seem possible, so who’s to say what is or isn’t possible when looking forward. Strap it down. Things could be interesting.
