Odds of Anthony Richardson joining the Vikings in 2026 just skyrocketed

The Minnesota Vikings have made it clear that they are open to adding to their quarterback room this offseason, and they just got an intriguing player thrown into the group of options. That player is Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, and on Thursday, ESPN reporter Stephen Holder revealed that the Colts have given Richardson permission to seek a trade.

Following the report, the Vikings immediately emerged as a potential landing spot for Richardson. NFL Newtork reporter Cameron Wolfe took to social media to say that Minnesota is a team to keep an eye on, adding that there is mutual interest, and that those conversations could get underway at the combine.

Vikings reportedly have interest in acquiring Anthony Richardson from Colts

Minnesota likely jumped into the mind of many NFL fans as Richardson’s next destination, for a few reasons. For starters, it’s clear the Vikings are trying to solve a problem at quarterback. While J.J. McCarthy could be the answer, he didn’t do enough in 2025 to remove any doubt. For that reason alone, Minnesota could be interested in Richardson.

The other reason, and perhaps the most significant, is that the Vikings have somewhat of a history with Richardson. Of course, there’s the viral postgame interaction between the quarterback and Minnesota’s head coach Kevin O’Connell, where O’Connell encouraged Richardson, praising his abilities, and letting the young quarterback know he believes in him.

There’s also the reports that Minnesota loved Richardson when he was coming into the league, and worked really hard to trade up and draft him. NFL analyst Brett Kollmann shared that the Vikings were prepared to send a hefty package to another team to move up and get Richardson, but they couldn’t find a partner.

Richardson was ultimately selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the fourth-overall pick of the 2023 Draft, and he went on to have a rocky three years with them. Appearing in just 17 games, starting 15, Richardson completed 50.6% of his passes for 2,400 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, while rushing for 634 yards and 10 additional touchdowns.

The young quarterback gave Indianapolis a full experience, flashing elite traits, struggling at times, and dealing with multiple injuries. That has all led to the Colts giving Richardson the opportunity to find a new home, and the Vikings could be that team.