Colts decline Anthony Richardson Sr.’s fifth-year option amid QB’s trade request: Source

The Indianapolis Colts declined the fifth-year option on quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr.’s rookie contract, a league source confirmed to The Athletic on Friday. The Colts had until Friday to exercise Richardson’s fifth-year option that would have paid the 2023 No. 4 pick a fully guaranteed $22.5 million in 2027, per Over the Cap. Now, he’s set to become an unrestricted free agent next year.FOX59 was first to report that the Colts declined Richardson’s fifth-year option.Three QBs were selected in the first round in 2023: No. 1 pick Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers, No. 2 pick C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans and Richardson. Richardson is the only one who did not have his fifth-year option picked up.The Colts’ decision to decline the fifth-year option on Richardson’s contract was expected, which further signals that his tumultuous tenure with the franchise is likely coming to an end. It’s just a matter of when. The 23-year-old requested a trade in February after three underwhelming seasons in Indianapolis, but the Colts have been unable to strike a deal.Richardson was limited to 15 starts (8-7) through his first two years with the Colts due to injuries, inaccuracy and immaturity. He lost the starting job