Indianapolis Colts backup quarterback Anthony Richardson is facing a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge after an Oct. 12 traffic stop in Hamilton County, a case filed Monday that adds another setback to a difficult stretch in his NFL career.
Police stopped Richardson because the vehicle he was driving had an expired registration tag, while its license plate did not correspond with the registration information, court records state. The officer reported smelling marijuana while approaching the vehicle.
Richardson told the officer he had smoked marijuana in the car because he did not want to do so around his children, the affidavit said. He also told police there was a small quantity of marijuana inside the vehicle.
During the search, the officer reported finding green leafy material believed to be marijuana and a bag containing five marijuana gummies. Both items were located in a small Mason jar in the glove compartment.
Richardson’s attorney, James Voyles, did not comment on the charge. The Colts said they were aware of the matter and were collecting more information, adding that the club would not make further comment at this time.
Richardson has not played since October 2025
The 24-year-old quarterback has not appeared in an NFL game since Oct. 5, 2025. Indianapolis selected Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft after his career at Florida, but injuries and uneven play have prevented him from establishing himself as the franchise’s long-term starter.
Richardson started only four games as a rookie before a shoulder injury ended his 2023 season. He made 11 starts in 2024, his highest total to date, but completed 47.7% of his passes, the lowest rate among NFL starting quarterbacks that season. He threw eight touchdown passes against 12 interceptions.
That season also included a game in which Richardson removed himself from action, later saying he was tired.
Daniel Jones won Indianapolis’ starting job over Richardson during the 2025 training camp. Richardson attempted two passes across two appearances before suffering a fractured orbital bone near his right eye when a stretching band snapped in the locker room before a game.
He has not taken another regular-season snap since that injury and has submitted two trade requests.
Backup role follows changes around Colts organization
Richardson retained the No. 2 quarterback role this summer, beating out Riley Leonard in training camp. Jones, who returned from a torn right Achilles tendon suffered last December, has taken every offensive snap for the 2-4 Colts this season.
The legal issue arrives days after Indianapolis dismissed general manager Chris Ballard, the executive who selected Richardson in the first round three years ago. Richardson said Wednesday that he was disappointed by Ballard’s departure and remains determined to validate the former general manager’s faith in him.
“He believed in me enough to have me here, and I’m forever grateful for that,” Richardson said. “I’m trying to do my part and not make him feel like he made the wrong decision. So I’m just trying to keep getting better every week and am waiting on my opportunity.”
