ESPN analyst suggests Commanders pursue Anthony Richardson as Daniels insurance

Ben Solak floated Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson as a developmental backup option for Washington amid Jayden Daniels' injury concerns.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels left the team's Week 2 game against Dallas in the second half after dislocating his left elbow. The injury came to the same elbow he hurt last season, raising questions about his durability going forward.

ESPN's Ben Solak suggested the Commanders should consider a younger backup option than current veteran Marcus Mariota, naming Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson as a possibility. Solak wrote that if Daniels were to miss significant time, Washington would need a better long-term answer at the backup spot.

Richardson, 24, was a first-round pick in 2023 and is in the final year of his rookie deal with Indianapolis. He has struggled as a starter, posting a 50.6 career completion percentage with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions across 15 starts, and has also battled injuries.

Still just an analyst's suggestion rather than a reported deal, the idea would give Washington a dual-threat option with considerable upside behind Daniels, either in a trade during the 2026 season or in free agency next offseason.