Anthony Richardson’s whole saga with the Colts has been a complete head-scratcher this season, and the latest chapter just dropped a massive dose of confusion. Remember how this dude *requested a trade* not that long ago this offseason? Yeah, that happened. But now, after a preseason game where the offense barely showed a pulse, he’s out here dropping quotes like, “I’m just looking forward to helping the team,” via the team’s website. Seriously? This is the same player who was reportedly trying to bounce just months back. The flip-flop is almost as jarring as some of those drives.
The Astonishing U-Turn From Trade Request
You’d think a trade request would mean a player is eyeing the exit, right? Not so fast, apparently. Richardson is now practically gushing about how he loves that the Colts “truly believe that I have a chance to be on this squad.” He even doubled down, saying he wants to “contribute, put my best foot forward and help the team win.” It’s a full-on 180 from his previous stance, and it makes you wonder what really went down behind closed doors. Did the market dry up for him? Or is this just a masterclass in PR? Assistant General Manager Ed Dodds gave us a major clue last week when he flat-out stated the team wants to have three quarterbacks “that can play.” That’s not just some casual comment. That’s a strong hint that Richardson’s “chance to be on this squad” is about securing a *backup* spot, plain and simple.
The Brutal Reality of the Backup QB Battle
So, yeah, forget any starting dreams. Richardson is locked in a fierce, and frankly, underwhelming, battle with Riley Leonard for the backup gigs behind Daniel Jones. And if the preseason is any indication, it’s not exactly a thrilling contest. Richardson got the nod to start the first preseason game, but his performance against the Falcons? Yikes. He completed a meager 3-of-9 passes for a measly 24 yards. He did try to make plays with his legs, running three times for 15 yards, but getting sacked twice in a 34-6 blowout loss just screams struggle. Riley Leonard, who started Saturday’s game, wasn’t exactly lighting up the highlight reel either. He went 7-of-14 for 62 yards, managing to engineer a couple of field goals. The cold, hard truth? Neither guy delivered a “compelling argument” for that coveted No. 2 job. It’s a messy situation, and the numbers are tough to ignore.
What’s Next For A Guy Who Wanted Out?
This whole backup QB drama is far from settled. Expect this nail-biting, low-scoring competition to rage on straight through the team’s final preseason game. For a player whose future was “debated often” after a trade request, Richardson’s current reality is stark. He’s not chasing a starting job, he’s just fighting to “contribute” from the sidelines. That’s a massive shift in expectations, and you have to wonder what’s going through his head right now. Does he truly believe in “helping the team” in this capacity, or is he just trying to make the best of a situation he actively tried to leave? The stakes are high for his spot on the roster, and this last preseason game is going to be absolutely critical for his future.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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