The Colts’ quarterback choice in 2023 wasn’t Daniel Jones, but Anthony Richardson—the fourth overall pick who the franchise immediately pegged as its starter. That decision shaped how teams viewed Richardson as a long-term asset and how others assessed potential trades for a young signal-caller with elite athletic traits.
Rumors and reporting from around that time indicated the Minnesota Vikings admired Richardson as a prospect and even considered moving up to land him. While it’s unclear whether Minnesota would pursue a trade for him today, the possibility remains a talking point for teams weighing the value of a young, dynamic quarterback against established plans at the position.
For a coach like Mike McCarthy, adding a talented young backup who longs for a starting role could complicate the quarterback room and team dynamics. Any such move would likely require a significant draft-pick return from the acquiring team, given Richardson’s high ceiling and the Colts’ own valuation of him as their future. Whether a deal materializes would hinge on how both sides project the quarterback’s development and how they balance short-term needs with long-term potential.
Overall, the discussion highlights how the NFL quarterback market continues to rotate around high-upside prospects. The Colts’ faith in Richardson signals a belief in a long-term upgrade at the most important position, while teams like the Vikings weigh whether a trade could accelerate their to-do list without destabilizing their current plans.
Summary: The Colts made a decisive call on Richardson as their starter, a move that has kept the quarterback market lively and speculative around teams that once considered him a trade target for the right price.
Positive note: If Richardson reaches his potential, his impact could energize an entire offense and shift how teams build around a young, dynamic quarterback.
Notes for editors: This piece reflects widely reported points about Richardson’s draft status and the Vikings’ rumored interest, framed around current quarterback-room considerations for teams led by coaches like Mike McCarthy.