Anthony Richardson Speaks Out After Being Named Colts Backup QB, Addresses Trade Request [VIDEO]
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Anthony Richardson officially earned the Indianapolis Colts’ backup quarterback job. Shane Steichen made it official Thursday. Daniel Jones remains the starter and Riley Leonard lost the job.
The 2023 No. 4 pick asked for a trade this offseason. He couldn’t force the team’s hand and decided to work for a spot in training camp. He won QB2 with his preseason tape.
Stephen Holder first posted the news.
Colts HC Shane Steichen announces that Anthony Richardson Sr. will be their No. 2 QB behind Daniel Jones to start the season.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) September 3, 2026
Anthony Richardson Called the Backup Job an Honor
James Boyd then shared Richardson’s full comments on camera. The fourth-year quarterback spoke after Steichen’s announcement.
“I’m honored,” he said. “I’m just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2.”
He said he is ready to work. He said he will give his best for this squad.
Reporters asked about the Colts trade request. He shut it down.
“I’m here. I’m not really thinking about that. I haven’t talked to my agent about that …”
Anthony Richardson Sr. on being named the #Colts’ backup QB:
“I’m honored. … I’m just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2.”
But what about the trade request?
“I’m here. I’m not really thinking about that. I haven’t talked to my agent about that …” pic.twitter.com/uRHSXLcNGy
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) September 3, 2026
He said he reported for OTAs ready to stay. Camp focus was backing Jones. Steichen granted that role Thursday.
Richardson is in the last year of his rookie deal. The Colts already declined his fifth-year option. He still framed the backup tag as belief from the staff.
Additionally, Richardson talked about growth and how he manages games better now. He wants fewer hero throws and try to follow Jones more.
How Anthony Richardson Won the Job Over Leonard
Richardson went 21-of-33 for 249 yards in the preseason. He threw no touchdowns and one interception. He added 10 carries for 68 yards.
Leonard went 20-of-42 for 199 yards and two picks. That gap decided the race.
Steichen liked what he saw in camp.
“I thought he did some good things during camp,” the coach said.
He said Richardson keeps developing and learning.
The former first-rounder has started only a handful of games. Injuries stacked up. Jones took the job last season. A Packers trade look never closed.
Richardson said he has not spoken to his agent about a move in a minute. Since Day 1 of camp, he prepared to back Jones. That is the job now.
The Colts open the season with three quarterbacks on the roster. Jones starts. Richardson waits. Leonard sits behind both.
