The Indianapolis Colts have decided not to pick up the fifth-year option on quarterback Anthony Richardson's rookie contract, according to Mike Chappell of Fox 59. The move, which comes ahead of Friday's deadline, was widely anticipated as the team actively explores trade options for the 2023 first-round pick.

General Manager Chris Ballard had previously indicated he "hadn't given too much thought" to the option, which would have guaranteed Richardson $22.483 million for the 2027 season. In the end, it didn't take much deliberation—Richardson, selected fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, has started just 15 games in his young career, plagued by both injuries and inconsistent performances.

The 24-year-old quarterback is currently recovering from an eye injury sustained last October, adding another layer of uncertainty to his future with the franchise. For a team looking to build stability under center, the decision signals a clear shift in direction.

For Colts fans and NFL observers alike, this marks another chapter in Indianapolis's ongoing search for a long-term answer at quarterback—a quest that has seen the team cycle through veterans and rookies since Andrew Luck's sudden retirement. As the trade market heats up, all eyes will be on where Richardson lands next and how the Colts plan to fill the void.