Anthony Richardson is set to assume the role of the Indianapolis Colts’ backup quarterback for the 2026 season. This announcement was made on Thursday by coach Shane Steichen, establishing Richardson’s position on the team two months after a trade request.
This development clarifies the team’s quarterback depth chart well in advance of the upcoming season. Richardson’s status as the Colts’ QB2 is a notable piece of news, providing insight into the team’s strategic planning and the player’s role within the organization for the specified period.
Key Facts
- Anthony Richardson will be the Colts’ backup quarterback.
- This role is for the 2026 season.
- Coach Shane Steichen made the announcement.
- The announcement occurred on Thursday.
- The news comes two months after a trade request.
The Announcement and Its Context
Coach Shane Steichen publicly confirmed Anthony Richardson’s designation as the Colts’ backup quarterback on Thursday. This decision places Richardson in a defined role for the Indianapolis Colts for the entire 2026 season. The announcement provides clarity on the team’s quarterback strategy for the future, outlining who will serve as the primary backup.
The declaration by coach Steichen on Thursday sets the stage for the team’s preparations, allowing for a structured approach to the quarterback position. This kind of early clarity regarding a key player’s role is significant for both the team and its fans, indicating a forward-looking perspective on player assignments.
What Does This Mean for Richardson?
Anthony Richardson’s new designation as the Colts’ QB2 for the 2026 season clarifies his immediate future with the team. This role means he will serve as the primary backup to the starting quarterback, a position that requires readiness to step in at any moment during games. Such a role is crucial for team stability and offers opportunities for continued development and learning from the sidelines.
Being named the backup quarterback also provides a clear pathway for Richardson within the team’s hierarchy. It signifies his value and the team’s plans for his contribution, particularly given the timing of the announcement relative to his trade request. This position allows him to remain an active part of the roster with a specific function.
What We Know — and What We Don’t
Verified by the source:
- Anthony Richardson has been named the Colts’ backup quarterback.
- This appointment is for the 2026 season.
- Coach Shane Steichen announced this on Thursday.
- The announcement was made two months after a trade request.
Still unconfirmed:
- The specific date of the Thursday announcement.
- The reason for the trade request mentioned.
- Details regarding the timeline or circumstances of the trade request.
- Who the starting quarterback for the Colts will be in 2026.
- Any further statements or context from Anthony Richardson himself.
Why It Matters
The designation of Anthony Richardson as the Colts’ backup quarterback for the 2026 season is important for understanding the team’s long-term strategy for its quarterback position. It provides certainty for fans and analysts about the depth chart and Richardson’s role, signaling stability in a critical area of team composition. This decision can influence future team planning and player development.
What to Watch
Further updates on the Colts’ full quarterback lineup for the 2026 season, including who will be the starting quarterback, would provide more context to Richardson’s role.