Richardson, the 23-year-old former No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, possesses elite physical tools—6-foot-4, 244 pounds with a powerful arm and notable athleticism. However, his on-field production has struggled to translate, completing just over 50% of his passes for roughly 2,400 yards with an 11-to-13 touchdown-to-interception ratio across 17 games over three seasons.
In Indianapolis, Richardson lost the starting job to Daniel Jones last season, appeared in only two games in 2025, and suffered an orbital bone fracture in Week 6 pregame warmups, leading the Colts to place him on injured reserve. The team has since granted him permission to seek a trade, signaling a potential home for Richardson elsewhere.
Cleveland has not committed to a long-term quarterback plan and is trading for Richardson is not on the horizon. The Browns currently roster Deshaun Watson, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, with head coach Todd Monken open to an open competition at quarterback. Monken and general manager Andrew Berry have emphasized evaluating options through free agency, the draft, or a trade as they build a competitive room.
Beyond Richardson, Cleveland has shown interest in developing young talent with high upside. Sanders, viewed as having elite playmaking ability, is under a cost-controlled fifth-round rookie deal, presenting a favorable economics angle for a quarterback development plan. The organization has kept the door open to adding another arm, but any move will depend on future evaluations and strategic needs as the offseason progresses.
In summary, the Browns are choosing to let competition unfold rather than pursuit of a high-profile trade for Richardson. Cleveland is prioritizing a merit-based quarterback battle among its current roster while remaining receptive to outside options should a strong opportunity present itself.
