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stephen holder
multiple authors
indianapolis-the colts Will not pick up fifth-year team option on quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr.For the 2027 season. ‘s rookie contract, a source confirmed to ESPN.
Friday is the deadline for NFL teams to exercise fifth-year options on their 2023 first-round selection. As expected, with the Colts refusing to do so, Richardson, the fourth pick in 2023, will hit unrestricted free agency after the 2026 season. Richardson’s option would have come with a guaranteed salary of more than $22 million if exercised.
The decision has increased uncertainty over Richarlison’s future with the club. Named the starting quarterback just two weeks after his first training camp, Richardson requested a trade in February and was allowed to talk with other teams about a potential deal.
Although no deal has been reached yet, it is unclear whether Richardson will remain with the Colts for the 2026 season. He hopes to land somewhere else as he looks for a fresh start after the Colts sign the quarterback Daniel Jones He signed a two-year, $88 million extension last month to become the team’s starter for the foreseeable future.
Richardson has not participated in voluntary offseason workouts.
General manager Chris Ballard recently reported that it was possible that Richardson would remain with the team.
“There’s definitely a scenario out there,” Ballard said in March. “He’s a good guy, and he’s talented. I still want the best for Anthony. I still think he’s got a lot of potential.”
Richardson, a raw prospect who started just 13 games at the University of Florida, has struggled with underperformance and injuries in his short Colts tenure. He missed 17 games due to injuries during his stint as a starter in 2023–24, then spent most of last season on injured reserve after he suffered an orbital fracture following a crash during pregame warmups.
In 17 appearances over three seasons, Richardson has completed 50.6% of his attempts with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
Fox59 in Indianapolis was first to report that the Colts would not pick up Richardson’s option.
