In the ever-shifting landscape of the NFL, where quarterback careers can rise and fall with the snap of a finger, former NFL running back and analyst Maurice Jones-Drew has sparked intrigue with his latest take. Jones-Drew, now an NFL Media expert, has pinpointed the San Francisco 49ers as an ideal destination for Anthony Richardson, the embattled former first-round pick who’s seemingly on the outs with the Indianapolis Colts. This suggestion comes amid growing speculation that Richardson and the Colts are headed for a split, potentially opening the door for a career revival elsewhere.
Richardson, selected fourth overall by the Colts in the 2023 NFL Draft, has endured a rocky start to his professional journey. Over his time in Indianapolis, he’s appeared in limited action, completing just 50.6 percent of his passes for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. Injuries and inconsistent play have plagued the young signal-caller, leading to questions about his long-term fit with the team. As the 2026 offseason heats up, reports indicate that a trade or release could be imminent, giving Richardson a chance to reset in a new environment.
Enter Jones-Drew’s analysis. In a recent piece where NFL Media experts identified potential trade fits for struggling quarterbacks, Jones-Drew highlighted the 49ers—and the Los Angeles Rams—as prime spots for Richardson to turn things around. Drawing parallels to other reclamation projects, he referenced Sam Darnold’s remarkable turnaround. “Sam Darnold went from former first-round bust to Super Bowl champion, and a huge player in that career turnaround was learning from coaches Kyle Shanahan and Kevin O’Connell during stops in San Francisco and Minnesota, respectively,” Jones-Drew wrote. “Richardson could be the NFL’s next reclamation project if he lands in the right spot after his tumultuous stint in Indy. Learning under Shanahan or Sean McVay in Los Angeles could help Richardson turn his career around and potentially earn another chance to eventually start.”
The nod to the 49ers is particularly eyebrow-raising given their current quarterback depth chart. Brock Purdy remains the unquestioned starter, fresh off leading the team to consistent playoff contention. Behind him, Mac Jones has solidified his role as the primary backup, especially after a strong showing in 2025. Jones, who signed a two-year deal with San Francisco in 2025, stepped up when Purdy went down with an injury, starting eight games and going 5-3. His stats were impressive: 69.6 percent completion rate, 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. This performance has not only boosted Jones’ stock but also drawn interest from other teams in need of quarterback help.
Despite the speculation, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch have been vocal about their desire to retain Jones. Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week, Lynch emphasized Jones’ value to the team. “He’s really good for us, and we value that,” Lynch said. “And so, somebody would have to come with something fairly strong for us to consider (trading him). And then, I don’t know what we do. Obviously, there’s always something that would make you (do it), but I think we’re a better team with him on it, and we just like having him around.”
If the 49ers were to entertain trading Jones, it could create an opening for a quarterback like Richardson. However, it’s worth noting that San Francisco might prefer exploring free-agent options over a trade for Richardson, especially considering his raw talent but unproven track record. Richardson’s athleticism and arm strength are undeniable assets, but his accuracy and decision-making have been points of criticism. Under Shanahan’s innovative offensive scheme, which has revitalized quarterbacks in the past, Richardson could potentially develop into a reliable backup or even a future starter.
Of course, this is all hypothetical at this stage. The 49ers’ front office has built a contender around Purdy, and any move would need to align with their championship aspirations. Jones-Drew’s endorsement adds fuel to the rumor mill, but whether Richardson ends up in the Bay Area—or anywhere else—remains to be seen. As the offseason unfolds, keep an eye on trade talks; a fresh start could be just what this former top prospect needs to reclaim his potential.
In the NFL, second chances are rare, but when they come under the right coach, they can lead to stardom. Could Shanahan be the key to unlocking Richardson’s upside? Only time will tell.
