When the Indianapolis Colts brought in former New York Giants starting quarterback Daniel Jones this offseason as competition for former No. 4 pick Anthony Richardson, few expected it to turn out the way it has.
This competition has led some to suspect that Richardson might be traded to another AFC team.
Could Anthony Richardson Be the Future of the Pittsburgh Steelers?
Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced in mid-August Jones would be the starter for Week 1 over Richardson. The former Florida Gators signal caller was selected so high in the 2023 NFL Draft because he had all of the physical tools necessary to succeed. Since then, he has not only been struggling to stay on the field two years into his career but also failing to turn these appealing attributes into successful play.
Indianapolis benching Richardson to start the 2025 season is undoubtedly a sign the organization is losing confidence, which could pave the way for a trade, possibly to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Veteran QB Aaron Rodgers only signed for one year with the Steelers, meaning the front office needs to find a long-term solution at the position. As it stands, Richardson is not the answer to their problems, but in the right system with strong mentorship, he could evolve into the future face of their franchise.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell predicts the Steelers could send a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Colts for Richardson with two usage cases for him in mind.
“One would be for the future, which might charitably be described as a big question mark in Pittsburgh,” Barnwell wrote. “Aaron Rodgers will turn 42 in December, while backup Mason Rudolph wasn’t able to convince the organization to make him the long-term starter in his first stint with the team.”
The Steelers have struggled to find a stable option at QB since Ben Roethlisberger retired after the 2021 season.
“The other case revolves around Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator. Arthur Smith’s predilection for the run game is well known, and while he hasn’t always had quarterbacks who could feature in the designed run game, he built in concepts for Marcus Mariota and Justin Fields to make an impact with their legs,” Barnwell shared.
Richardson is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks the league has to offer, but he has yet to prove he’s durable enough to be used as such. He recorded 499 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns in 11 appearances last season. His 6-foot-4, 244-pound frame makes him an even greater threat on the ground.
ANTHONY RICHARDSON RUNS THROUGH BRANCH
😤😤😤pic.twitter.com/aWiCrAlj1m
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 24, 2024
In Pittsburgh, Smith could utilize this well-known ability in the short term, while Richardson would be able to learn the keys to thriving as a quarterback from an all-time great in Rodgers.
