Why did Colts grant Anthony Richardson trade permission?

A franchise decision driven by health and performance

The Indianapolis Colts granted Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade after a turbulent tenure that included multiple injuries and inconsistent play. Richardson finished the 2025 season on injured reserve after suffering an orbital fracture in an unusual accident during pregame warmups; that injury was the latest in a string that interrupted his development and availability.

Colts decision-makers framed the move as an acknowledgment that a clean break might be best for both sides. Giving Richardson and his representatives the green light to pursue other suitors lets Indianapolis accelerate its roster planning — whether that means moving on to a veteran starter, engaging Daniel Jones in contract talks, or reshaping the quarterback room through the draft. For Richardson, trade permission opens the door to landing in a system that better fits his skill set or offers a clearer path to starting.

Immediate implications include:

• Roster clarity for the Colts: the team can proceed with contingency plans at quarterback and allocate resources with fewer constraints.
• Market questions: teams weighing a high-upside but injury-prone young quarterback must balance potential against medical history.
• Timing and logistics: any deal depends on team interest, medical evaluations and the timing of the new league year.

It remains unclear where Richardson might land and how teams will price the risk. The Colts’ move is the first concrete step in what looks like a larger reshaping of their quarterback room and could have ripple effects across the buy‑and‑trade market this offseason.