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Vikings coach O'Connell backs struggling QB Richardson
27 Feb
Summary
- O'Connell encouraged Richardson to keep working despite struggles.
- Richardson suffered a season-ending eye injury in 2025.
- The Colts quarterback is under contract through 2026.
Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell expressed his belief in Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson during a meeting in Week 9 of the 2024 season. O'Connell told Richardson that he was a "bad dude" and would "play a long time" in the league.
Richardson's career has faced setbacks since his promising start. After appearing in four games as a rookie in 2023, he started 11 games in 2024. However, his 2025 season was cut short in Week 6 by a season-ending eye injury sustained in a locker room mishap.
The Colts have since granted Richardson permission to explore trade options. He is currently under contract through 2026, with a guaranteed compensation of $5.385 million. A fifth-year option for 2027 would guarantee him $23.5 million.
