Colts could cut ties with $34 million star in stunning trade idea

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson faces a make-or-break season.

Despite still being 22 years old and entering his third season in the NFL, there's a good chance this is Richardson's final opportunity to prove he's a long-term starter in the league.

The Colts brought in Daniel Jones this offseason on a deal that included $13.5 million guaranteed, giving Richardson some viable competition.

Thus, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox believes the former No. 4 overall pick is the team's top trade asset.

"Ultimately, much of the Colts success this season rides on what Steichen can get out of Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones. The fact that the Colts handed Jones a one-year, $14 million contract isn't a ringing endorsement of Richardson," Knox wrote.

In 11 games (all starts) last season, Richardson completed just 47.7% of his passes for 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 61.6 passer rating. He added 86 carries for 499 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, but he also had nine fumbles.

There were some improvements made following the midseason benching, though. During that span, he completed 51.1% of his passes for 856 yards, four touchdowns, five interceptions and a 66.2 passer rating. Not incredible improvements, but there was at least something.

The best outcome for the Colts is that Richardson takes an incredible leap and shows signs of major improvement.

If that doesn't happen, it's likely that general manager Chris Ballard will go down with the ship.