The Los Angeles Rams should do all they can to snag this former top-five pick this offseason.
The Los Angeles Rams have much to address this offseason. The team has a lot on its plate, including a total of 10 draft picks in April, with two of them being in the first round.
That is at the top of mind for the Rams; however, the same could be said for finding a quarterback of the future. Many believe the Rams should find their Matthew Stafford replacement in the draft; however, they may not need to use one of their picks on a quarterback.
Instead, L.A. could just trade for its future quarterback this offseason. NFL reporter Cameron Wolfe reported that the Indianapolis Colts and Anthony Richardson have mutually agreed to seek a trade.
Richardson has been virtually ostracized by the Colts.
ESPN’s Stephen Holder also reported on the news. In a follow-up report, Holder details the discussions between Richardson and Colts general manager Chris Ballard.
"The decision to allow conversations with other teams was communicated during a meeting with Ballard and Richardson’s camp on Thursday. In that meeting, Ballard expressed a willingness to work with Richardson to find a suitable landing spot. That’s why the decision to allow Jackson to speak with other teams and find a match works in the player’s favor," Holder wrote.
"Richardson has one season remaining on his rookie contract provided unless his 2027 fifth-year option is exercised. He is due a $1.145 million and a $4.24 million roster bonus that is due in August. The Colts would save $5.385 million in salary cap space with $5.43 million in dead money if Richardson is traded before June 1."
Some of it has been due to his own wrongdoing; nonetheless, Richardson needs a change of scenery.
With that being the case, the Rams should do all they can to acquire the former No. 4 overall pick. The 23-year-old has had a rough go in the NFL, but being in Los Angeles under Sean McVay could do wonders for his career.
Stafford would still hold the reins, but it won't be long before he could potentially take the keys for good. Richardson is still only 23 years old and possesses physical talent with elite arm strength, immense size, and explosiveness.
Richardson's ability to make off-platform throws and scrambling and running ability make him a perfect quarterback for today's game. However, there is some pause with Richardson. His early and often-injured history is a cause for concern.
Add the fact that he is extremely inconsistent with his passing accuracy and has poor mechanics, and the worries are valid. Nonetheless, most of those issues can be resolved with a great head coach and front office. The Rams are strong in both of those departments.
There is a ton of meat left in the bone when it comes to Richardson, and it could be worth it for L.A. to take a stab at it.