The Indianapolis Colts confirmed Daniel Jones will be their starting quarterback throughout the 2025 season, sidelining former No. 4 overall pick Anthony Richardson from that role. This decision, announced by coach Shane Steichen, reflects the Colts’ commitment to Jones, who was signed in free agency with a $14 million contract, while Richardson’s struggles in accuracy, health, and overall consistency have raised serious doubts about his future with the team. With Richardson just 23 years old, several <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL teams could consider acquiring him during or after the upcoming offseason, drawn by his rare physical abilities despite inconsistent play.
The Rams’ quarterback situation and potential interest in Richardson
The Los Angeles Rams are concentrating on a Super Bowl run in the current season, relying on veteran Matthew Stafford, who has faced recent back issues. Stafford’s uncertain long-term availability opens the door for the Rams to view Richardson as a viable future starter. They could potentially trade for Richardson in the 2025 offseason, allowing him to develop under Stafford’s mentorship before stepping into the starting role around 2027, when Stafford would likely be nearing retirement. Head coach Sean McVay’s reputation as a quarterback developer plays into the possibility that Richardson could flourish in Los Angeles.
Saints’ quarterback room and the possibility of a fresh start
The New Orleans Saints are positioned to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, aiming to address their quarterback needs through new talent like Garrett Nussmeier, LaNorris Sellers, Drew Allar, or Arch Manning. Currently, their quarterback roster, which includes Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough, is viewed as one of the weakest in the league. If Richardson’s agent pushes for a trade, New Orleans could consider adding the young quarterback to bring competition and potential upside to their quarterback mix, providing him with a change of scenery that might accelerate his development.
Las Vegas Raiders’ backup plan with Richardson
Though the Raiders recently secured Geno Smith on a two-year extension, they could still regard Richardson as a valuable insurance policy for the future. Head coach Pete Carroll, whose Seattle Seahawks previously considered drafting Richardson in 2023, recognizes his athletic potential. Carroll commented,
We gave him tremendous consideration. He might be the best athlete that’s ever been drafted at that position. He’s arguably that. So, we had to definitely consider that.
This view highlights Richardson’s athleticism and why the Raiders might see him as a worthwhile option whether to back up or eventually replace Smith.
Steelers’ long-term concerns and trade possibilities for Richardson
The Pittsburgh Steelers will lean on 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers during the 2025 season, a short-term solution that will not provide a sustainable future at quarterback. Rodgers’ presence could keep the Steelers competitive, but it does not guarantee Super Bowl contention. As Pittsburgh’s draft position is unlikely to be high, general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin might explore trades or free agency for a younger quarterback option. Richardson fits into this group as a potential trade candidate who could serve as a developmental player behind Rodgers or beyond the 2025 season. The 2025 QB free agent class includes Trey Lance, Zach Wilson, and others, but Richardson’s upside could make him especially attractive.
Ravens’ tradition with dynamic QBs and potential backup role
The Baltimore Ravens have historically valued mobile, dual-threat quarterbacks as backups, supporting starters like Joe Flacco and Lamar Jackson. This has included signing Robert Griffin III, developing Tyler Huntley into a Pro Bowl player, and drafting prospects such as Trace McSorley and Devin Leary. Richardson presents a larger-profile option with intriguing physical skills to fill this secondary quarterback role behind Jackson. Moreover, the Ravens might view trading for Richardson as smart business, similar to how the Minnesota Vikings signed Daniel Jones after his release, eventually obtaining draft compensation when Jones succeeded with the Colts. Baltimore could utilize a comparable strategy with Richardson as they plan for the long term.
Anticipating the next steps in Anthony Richardson’s NFL journey
With the Colts’ firm decision to move forward with Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson’s future as a starting quarterback is uncertain but far from over. His physical talent keeps him on the radar of teams willing to invest in his development. The upcoming offseason may well determine which franchise gives him another chance to realize his potential. Whether as a backup learning under an experienced starter or a developmental prospect with a fresh start, Richardson remains a notable name heading into 2025 free agency and trades, embodying the challenge and opportunity for teams looking for a dynamic quarterback who has yet to reach his ceiling.