Former Florida Star Anthony Richardson Lands Role With Colts

Former Florida Gators star quarterback Anthony Richardson has been named QB2 for the Indianapolis Colts for the 2026 season. Richardson had requested a trade earlier this offseason, but will remain with the franchise for now.

Richardson had an impressive career with the Gators, which led the Colts to select him with the fourth overall pick.

He got some play time in the 2021 season, completing 38 of 64 passes (59.4 percent) for 529 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions. Richardson showed off his wheels by rushing for 401 yards and three touchdowns on 51 carries.

In the 2022 season as a starter, he completed 53.8 percent of his passes for 2,549 yards, 17 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Richardson was also effective on the ground, as he rushed for 654 yards and nine touchdowns on 103 carries. 

His success with the Gators hasn't translated to the NFL, as he has struggled early in his career with the Colts. In 17 games in his first three seasons, he has completed 50.6 percent of his passes for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. Richardson has been a quality rusher, as he's run for 634 yards and 10 touchdowns on 115 carries.

He has had flashes of being a quality player with his strong arm and dual-threat ability, but hasn't been a consistently accurate passer.

The 24-year-old will sit behind Daniel Jones for Indianapolis in the 2026 season as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. Richardson could get an opportunity to play if Jones goes down with an injury.

"I'm honored. … I'm just thankful that they believe in me enough to promote me to QB2," Richardson said.

However, if Jones remains healthy, Richardson could seek a new opportunity elsewhere as he hits free agency after the season. He is no longer worried about the trade request he had made earlier this offseason.

"I'm here. I'm not really thinking about that. I haven't talked to my agent about that," Richardson added.

The Gators hope the Florida alum will improve in his NFL career and become a star like he was in college.