With Aaron Rodgers’ status still in flux, the Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty at quarterback as they approach the 2026 season. The team is weighing options for life after Rodgers, should he choose to retire or remain undecided.
One potential avenue is pursuing Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who has requested a trade. A proposed deal would send Richardson to Pittsburgh in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round pick (No. 121). The move would give the Steelers a high-upside option while Rodgers contemplates his future.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has started 15 games across two seasons. His NFL sample includes 2,400 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, complemented by 634 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. Critics point to accuracy and turnover concerns, but his dual-threat ability and youth leave room for development.
The Colts, meanwhile, would likely welcome the potential trade given Richardson’s uncertain path to the starting role in Indianapolis, especially with Daniel Jones signing an extension and taking the job in 2025. For Pittsburgh, the trade represents a relatively inexpensive speculative investment with the option to develop Richardson behind a veteran presence.
Overall, the proposed deal hinges on Rodgers’ decision and whether the Steelers believe Richardson can mature into a long-term solution. If Rodgers returns for 2026, Richardson could still be a developing project behind a quarterback who has won multiple championships; if not, Pittsburgh would gain a potential franchise-altering player at a modest cost.
