The Indianapolis Colts have themselves a quarterback controversy. After reports that the team agreed in terms to sign free agent quarterback Daniel Jones, speculation has spiked about Anthony Richardson’s future with the team. Former NFL quarterback and current analyst Dan Orlovsky added fuel to the fire by sparking trade rumors surrounding Richardson.
Why Colts Agreed To Sign Daniel Jones in 2025 NFL Free Agency
To bolster their quarterback depth, the Colts agreed to a one-year, $14 million deal with former New York Giants starter and Minnesota Vikings backup Daniel Jones. Reports indicate the move is designed to create competition for Anthony Richardson, who has struggled with consistency despite his incredible arm talent and elite athleticism.
In 2024, Richardson completed less than 50% of his passes over 11 games, totaling 1,814 passing yards. PFSN’s Ben Rolfe placed him 37th in his 2024 QB Rankings, 14 spots below his backup Joe Flacco, adding, “Not many quarterbacks have a lower EPA/DB than his -0.13 (36th). He also ranks inside the bottom 10 in EPA/DB from a clean pocket (0.12; 30th) or when pressured (-0.53; 34th), and his 31.2% third-down conversion rate is 34th.”
Jones wasn’t ranked much better, coming in at 32nd. Rolfe noted, “Jones was pretty much bad at everything this season, and at this stage in his career, there’s not much positive that we can seek. Jones’ EPA/DB (in 2024) of -0.08 ranked 34th, and he was outside the top 25 both from a clean pocket (0.15 EPA/DB; 28th) and when pressured (-0.46 EPA/DB; 31st).”
General manager Chris Ballard emphasized the importance of competition, stating that Richardson’s starting job isn’t guaranteed. Ballard believes that adding a challenger like Jones will benefit the team and Richardson himself, pushing everyone to improve their performance. Ironically, the Giants failed to bring in competition for Jones when he could not prove himself as a reliable starter.
Dan Orlovsky’s Comments Spark Anthony Richardson Trade Rumors
After NFL insider Adam Schefter announced the Colts’ agreement in terms to sign Jones, former NFL quarterback and current analyst Orlovsky responded with, “That’s a lot of money for the chance to start. Richardson ask for a trade?”
Former Colts punter Pat McAfee responded to Orlovsky’s post: “That sounds like a good idea.. fresh start for a guy with MASSIVE upside.”
When Jones officially signs, his $14 million per year average ranks him 22nd among quarterbacks, above the likes of starters Caleb Williams, Bryce Young, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Bo Nix, and Michael Penix, Jr, all of whom are on their rookie contracts. Jones’ annual average also eclipses Richardson’s cap hit of $9.2 million for 2025.
Richardson has two years remaining on his current rookie contract with a club option for 2027. By agreeing to bring in Jones, it would appear the club won’t exercise that option. Releasing Richardson would result in $20 million of dead cap, while trading him would incur $10 million in dead money.
The Daniel Jones signing plants Richardson squarely on the hot seat. If Richardson can’t outperform Jones, his chances of maintaining starting quarterback status in the NFL take a fatal hit. However, the Colts’ management remains optimistic about Richardson’s potential. Ballard highlighted Richardson’s positive mentality and willingness to work on his game, which are crucial for his development.
Teams That Could Trade For Anthony Richardson
Would a QB-needy team like the New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, or Tennessee Titans trade for Richardson?
The Giants lost out on their bid to trade for Matthew Stafford, then watched free agent Justin Fields agree to terms with the New York Jets.
While the Giants are still considering proven veterans like Russell Wilson and Rodgers, Richardson presents an upside and a higher ceiling for the long term.
Fields’ former team, the Steelers, could employ an approach similar to their strategy heading into the 2024 season, acquiring a young talent like Richardson and signing a veteran like Rodgers to a very team-friendly contract.
It remains to be seen if Richardson will actually be traded but one thing is certain: entering his third season as a pro, this is a make-or-break year for the 22-year-old.