Indianapolis Colts decline Anthony Richardson’s fifth-year option
The Indianapolis Colts have declined to exercise quarterback Anthony Richardson’s fifth-year contract option for the 2027 season, ensuring he will become an unrestricted free agent after 2026.
Friday marked the official NFL deadline for franchises to activate the fifth-year extensions on their 2023 first-round draft selections.
Activating the clause for the fourth overall pick would have committed the franchise to a guaranteed salary exceeding $22m.
Trade requests and uncertain future
This contractual decision further clouds the future of a player who was named the starting signal-caller just two weeks into his inaugural training camp.
The former first-round selection formally requested a trade in February and subsequently received permission to negotiate with other organisations regarding a potential move.
His desire for a fresh start follows the Colts’ recent commitment to Daniel Jones, who signed a lucrative two-year, $88m extension to become the established starter.
Amid the ongoing uncertainty, the former University of Florida standout has elected to bypass the team’s voluntary off-season workout programme.
Injuries blight early career
Despite the apparent friction, general manager Chris Ballard recently maintained that a reconciliation remains entirely possible.
“There’s definitely a scenario there,” Ballard said in March.
“He’s a good dude and he’s talented. I still want good for Anthony. I still think he’s got a lot in him.”
The raw prospect has endured a turbulent start to his professional career, severely hampered by recurring physical setbacks.
He missed 17 matches across his opening two campaigns and spent the majority of last season on injured reserve after sustaining an orbital fracture during a freak pre-game warmup accident.
In his 17 total appearances over three seasons, the heavily scrutinised prospect has recorded an underwhelming 50.6% completion rate, throwing 11 touchdowns alongside 13 interceptions.