The Indianapolis Colts' quarterback situation is taking an unexpected turn this offseason, and head coach Shane Steichen is keeping a close eye on Anthony Richardson as voluntary workouts heat up.

After requesting a trade back in late February, Richardson has been a central figure in Colts camp drama—but with no deal materializing, the team is taking a patient approach. Following a Phase I absence, the young QB is now fully engaged in Phase II of the offseason program, working alongside his teammates.

"He's back in the fold right now," Steichen shared Friday, via The Athletic's James Boyd. "That part's been good. He's working, going through his fundamentals, details, out there throwing with the guys, and that's where it's at right now."

Richardson entered last season as the backup but landed on injured reserve after an eye injury. The original plan was to trade him and let rookie Riley Leonard step into the QB2 role. But with that trade still on hold, the Colts are adjusting on the fly—especially with another quarterback still rehabbing.

So how are reps being divided between Richardson and Leonard? Steichen is keeping his cards close to the vest, but he's clear that both will get their fair share of work.

"That's part of it," Steichen explained. "Obviously, he's going to get reps just like Riley will get reps. We're in Phase II right now, throwing routes on air, doing walkthrough stuff, and both of those guys will get reps."

When pressed on whether Richardson is truly competing for the backup role, Steichen offered a classic coach's answer: "Right now, we're in May, we'll see how it goes with all that. He's working, he's here, he's in good spirits, he was cleared to play with the vision stuff, so that part's good."

For Colts fans and fantasy football followers alike, this developing storyline is one to watch. As the team navigates the offseason grind, Richardson's return adds an intriguing layer to the depth chart—and keeps the quarterback conversation wide open heading into summer.