The NFL offseason is in full swing as stars find new homes in free agency and trades are being made to give some players a fresh start elsewhere.
That could be the case soon for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who has struggled both to stay healthy and perform on the field in his first three seasons as a pro.
Now, Richardson has been given permission to pursue a trade, and there could be a spot for him with an interested team. The Green Bay Packers are a team to monitor in trade discussions, according to ESPN’s Stephen Holder. The Packers could use Richardson as a backup to Jordan Love, and it would allow Richardson ample time to develop with coach and quarterback whisperer Matt LaFleur.
The Colts selected the former Florida signal-caller with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft, but Richardson has only appeared in 17 games since being drafted. His rookie year was cut short by shoulder surgery after just four games. He played in 11 games the following season but was benched during the season.
Last season was a turning point, as the Colts signed Daniel Jones to compete with Richardson in camp. Jones knew the struggles of a former top-five pick in a big city and not meeting expectations. Jones won the starting job in camp, making Richardson the backup.
Jones led the Colts to a strong start before suffering a season-ending injury. Unfortunately, Richardson was around to take his place, having suffered an eye injury in warmups before a game that left him sidelined.
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The Packers could be an ideal fit for Richardson. Green Bay has had to deal with injuries to Love several times, and they had spent time developing Malik Willis as the backup to still have success on the field.
That success turned into a payday and a new job for Willis, who just signed a three-year, $67.5 million contract to be the starter for the Miami Dolphins next season. Like Richardson, Willis had the physical tools to play quarterback coming into the NFL, but he didn’t take advantage until he had a change of scenery and began to realize his potential.
Richardson could do the same. He’s thrown 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions with the Colts, but has also run for 10 touchdowns. His physical nature could make him an attractive piece for several teams, but the Packers could be best suited to help him develop.
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