Anthony Richardson Trade Rumors – Could the Green Bay Packers Target Colts QB as Jordan Love Backup?

The Green Bay Packers may be exploring an intriguing quarterback move ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, as trade speculation surrounding Anthony Richardson continues to build. With starting QB Jordan Love firmly in place, Green Bay appears to be searching for a reliable backup option—potentially opening the door for a surprising deal with the Indianapolis Colts.

Packers Eye Quarterback Depth After Malik Willis Departure

For the past two seasons, the Packers have relied on a developmental backup behind Jordan Love. However, that situation changed when Malik Willis departed in March to join the Miami Dolphins.

While Desmond Ridder remains on the roster and brings starting experience (18 career starts), there are still questions about whether he is the ideal long-term backup solution. This uncertainty has fueled speculation that Green Bay could pursue a higher-upside option like Anthony Richardson.

Anthony Richardson Trade Rumors Gain Momentum

According to ESPN insider Stephen Holder, Richardson has emerged as a potential trade candidate, with the Packers among the teams to watch.

Holder reported that while no deal is imminent, multiple teams have expressed interest, and Green Bay stands out as a particularly intriguing destination. The timing of any potential trade could align with or follow the NFL Draft, when teams reassess roster needs.

NFL analyst Moe Moton of Bleacher Report echoed that sentiment, suggesting Richardson could benefit from a fresh start—especially in a system like Green Bay’s that has recently succeeded in developing young quarterbacks.

Why the Packers Could Be a Fit for Richardson

Green Bay has quietly built a reputation for quarterback development. The organization helped elevate Malik Willis’ performance over the past two seasons, turning him into a more polished and valuable player.

That track record could make the Packers an appealing landing spot for Richardson, who entered the NFL as a high-upside prospect but has yet to fully realize his potential.

At just 23 years old, Richardson still offers elite physical tools, including:

• Exceptional arm strength
• High-end mobility
• Ideal size (6’4”, 245 pounds)

However, he remains a raw talent who could benefit from time in a structured system without immediate pressure to start.

Injuries and Inconsistency Have Defined Richardson’s Career

Despite being selected No. 4 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson’s career with the Colts has been marked by setbacks.

He entered the league with limited experience—just 13 college starts—and was viewed as a long-term project. Unfortunately, injuries quickly disrupted his development.

• Rookie Season (2023): Played only four games due to injury
• 2024 Season: Battled health issues and inconsistent performance
• Lost starting role temporarily to veteran Joe Flacco
• Later overtaken by Daniel Jones during preseason

Richardson’s challenges weren’t limited to performance. Reports of sideline frustrations and a controversial moment where he asked to leave a game despite no visible injury raised concerns within the organization and among fans.

His season ultimately ended after a fractured orbital bone suffered in a training accident, further complicating his standing with the team.

Anthony Richardson’s Career Stats and Performance

Through 17 NFL appearances (15 starts), Richardson has posted mixed results:

• Passing Yards: 2,400
• Touchdowns: 11
• Interceptions: 13
• Completion Rate: 50.6%
• Rushing Yards: 634
• Rushing TDs: 10

While these numbers reflect inconsistency, they also highlight his dual-threat capability—a trait that continues to intrigue teams across the league.

Trade Market Could Heat Up Around NFL Draft

The Colts have reportedly been open to exploring trade options for Richardson since the NFL Combine in February. However, no deal has materialized yet, largely due to timing.

Many teams are waiting to see how the draft unfolds before making a move. Franchises may opt to draft a young quarterback on a cheaper contract rather than trade for Richardson, who is entering a critical stage of his rookie deal.

Richardson is set to play the final year of his $34 million contract, with a $22.5 million team option for 2027 that must be decided by May 1. This adds urgency for any team considering a trade.

Would Richardson Fit as Jordan Love’s Backup?

Unlike teams seeking a starting quarterback, the Packers are in a unique position. With Jordan Love entrenched as QB1, Green Bay is looking for a dependable backup who can step in if needed.

However, Richardson is not a typical backup candidate. He remains a developmental player who may require significant coaching and patience.

That said, Green Bay’s recent success in developing quarterbacks could make them one of the few teams capable of maximizing Richardson’s potential without rushing his progression.

Packers-Bears Rivalry Adds Extra Spotlight

Any move involving the Packers tends to draw additional attention due to the historic Chicago Bears rivalry. While Richardson’s potential arrival wouldn’t directly impact that matchup immediately, it could shape the long-term quarterback landscape in the NFC North.

Final Outlook: High Risk, High Reward Move?

A potential trade for Anthony Richardson would represent a classic high-risk, high-reward decision for the Packers.

On one hand, they would be acquiring a physically gifted quarterback with untapped potential. On the other, they would be taking on a player with a history of injuries and inconsistent performance.

Ultimately, the decision may come down to timing. If Richardson remains available after the NFL Draft, Green Bay could emerge as a serious contender to make a move—especially if they believe their coaching staff can unlock his abilities.

For now, the situation remains fluid, but one thing is clear: Anthony Richardson’s future in the NFL could take a dramatic turn in the coming weeks, and the Green Bay Packers are firmly in the conversation.