A former top draft pick is expected to be available for free after the upcoming season. The Indianapolis Colts are declining the fifth-year option on Anthony Richardson.

The Indianapolis Colts are apparently declining the option for a fifth contract year in quarterback Anthony Richardson’s deal, according to the website “Fox59.com.” Richardson is thus expected to become a free agent after the upcoming season.

The Colts’ decision comes as no real surprise. The team drafted Richardson fourth overall in the first round of the 2023 draft, even though the now 23-year-old had very little college experience at the time.

NFL: Richardson Injured Time and Again

However, hopes that the playmaker would develop into an NFL superstar based on his physical attributes did not materialize. Over three years, Richardson appeared in 17 games, starting 15 of them.

With a below-average completion rate of 50.6 percent, Richardson racked up 2,400 passing yards, threw 11 touchdowns, and gave up 13 interceptions. As a runner, he also contributed 634 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, offset by 12 fumbles.

However, the fact that the 6-foot-4 giant has not yet fully realized his potential also had to do with his extremely physical playing style, which repeatedly led to injuries. As a result, Richardson missed large portions of his rookie season with a shoulder injury.

In Indianapolis, other players have since surpassed him. After newcomer Daniel Jones impressed for long stretches, he tore his Achilles tendon in Week 14.

For the season’s final stretch, the Colts then brought Los Angeles Chargers legend Philip Rivers out of retirement; he took over as quarterback until the end of the season but was unable to secure a playoff spot.