The quarterback carousel continues spinning across the NFL as teams finalize their depth charts for the 2025-26 season. The Indianapolis Colts have chosen Daniel Jones as their QB1, kickstarting a series of conversations around the upcoming season and multiple QB rooms. Matthew Stafford’s lingering back issues cast doubt on his status for the Los Angeles Rams’ Week 1 game, while JJ McCarthy’s status with the Minnesota Vikings remains uncertain.
Though there’s rarely a quick fix to a team’s problems, trading for a talented former first-round pick might offer the right solution for quarterback-needy franchises.
Which Three Teams Did Dan Orlovsky Identify as Perfect Trade Destinations for the 23-Year-Old Quarterback?
The Colts’ decision to name Jones their starting quarterback naturally pushed the 23-year-old Richardson into a backup role after what appeared to be a competitive summer battle. This development puts Richardson’s entire future in Indianapolis in jeopardy, making him a prime candidate for a potential trade.
Former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky wasted no time identifying three teams that should pursue Richardson. In a recent post on Twitter, the analyst laid out his top trade destinations for the young signal-caller.
“Teams that should offer the Colts a mid-round pick for Anthony Richardson today… Eagles. Rams. Vikings,” Orlovsky wrote.
Teams that should offer the Colts a mid-round pick for Anthony Richardson today…
Eagles
Rams
Vikings@PaulHembo 🤝— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) August 20, 2025
According to the 42-year-old former quarterback, these teams could offer Indianapolis a mid-round pick to acquire Richardson’s services. While negotiations might involve additional compensation, Richardson’s status as a backup quarterback certainly gives him multiple suitors in the trade market.
Orlovsky didn’t just drop names and walk away. He took time to explain his reasoning, particularly regarding the Philadelphia Eagles. Addressing why the Eagles wouldn’t create quarterback controversy, Orlovsky added:
“1) absolutely zero controversy, you have the defending SB champ and a top 10 player at position 2) someone is coming for McKee. Soon. 3) assets assets assets.”
The response from NFL fans proved mixed. Some agreed with Orlovsky’s assessment, while others suggested alternative destinations like the New Orleans Saints and Las Vegas Raiders. However, several fans questioned Richardson’s talent level entirely, arguing the Colts made the right choice in going with Jones.
Beyond Orlovsky’s analysis, other NFL insiders have weighed in on Richardson’s potential landing spots. Reporter Corbin K. Smith recently discussed Richardson’s future, specifically naming the Raiders as a compelling destination. Smith believes Richardson could fit perfectly with head coach Pete Carroll’s philosophy as Las Vegas looks to rebuild the franchise in 2025.
How Did Anthony Richardson Handle the News About Losing the Starting Job?
Richardson faced the media following head coach Shane Steichen’s quarterback announcement, maintaining a professional attitude despite the disappointing news. Rather than expressing frustration or anger, he focused on respecting the organization’s decision and continuing his NFL journey.
“You gotta respect the decision,” Richardson said. “They feel like he’s a better fit for the team, better fit for the outcome of us winning. So you just gotta respect it and keep working.”
Despite losing the starting position, Richardson remained confident in his offseason preparation and personal growth. He refused to let the coaching staff’s decision diminish his belief in the progress he’s made since entering the league.
Anthony Richardson on losing the quarterback battle: pic.twitter.com/6lpfRNkie8
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) August 19, 2025
“That doesn’t undermine any of the work I’ve been putting in, it doesn’t say I haven’t improved,” Richardson added. “I’m proud of the improvement I’ve made. Shane [Steichen] is also proud of that, so just gotta keep stacking on that. Just keep getting better.”
Richardson’s NFL career has been marked by injuries that have limited his development and statistical production. During his 2023 rookie season, he completed 50 of 84 pass attempts for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. The following season brought more playing time with 11 games, but Richardson’s performance declined as his touchdown-to-interception ratio fell to 8-12. His completion percentage also dropped by over 10%.
However, considering the dedication Richardson has shown during the offseason and his potential for growth in a new environment, the young quarterback could still develop into a productive NFL starter. The Colts will begin testing their quarterback decision in Week 1 when they face the Miami Dolphins on September 7.
