Anthony Richardson Sr. to Start Colts' Preseason Finale amid NFL Trade Rumors

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. will get one last chance to impress potential trade suitors later this week.

Per ESPN's Stephen Holder, Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced on Tuesday that Richardson will be the starting quarterback for the team's preseason finale against the Detroit Lions on Saturday.

Holder added that the Colts' starters will likely play "a series or two," though quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Jonathan Taylor will remain on the sidelines. Jones is still targeting a Week 1 return as he recovers from a torn Achilles.

Richardson started Indianapolis' preseason opener against the New England Patriots but played the second half in last week's matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Across the two appearances, he completed 14 of his 23 passes for 169 yards and an interception while also rushing for 68 yards and one touchdown.

The No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft should be motivated to go out with a bang on Saturday against the Lions. Richardson requested to be traded this offseason, but Colts general manager Chris Ballard told reporters last month that the team is "not going to give him away."

Despite the lackluster start to his career and the ongoing trade rumors, Richardson expressed optimism that he would be able to produce for the Colts if they retain him and he has to step in for Jones.

"I'm just looking forward to helping the team," Richardson told Holder. "They truly believe that I still have a chance to be on this squad, and I love that. I just want to be able to contribute."