Colts QB Richardson Charged With Pot Possession After Traffic Stop

Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has been formally charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession following a traffic stop in Carmel, Indiana, on October 12 ^[1]. According to court records and police affidavits, officers detected the odor of marijuana upon approaching his 2023 Dodge Charger, which had an expired registration assigned to a different vehicle ^[3]. Richardson admitted to smoking marijuana in the car to avoid doing so in front of his children, police said ^[2].

Officers removed Richardson from the vehicle and handcuffed him during a search, during which they discovered a small amount of marijuana and a bag of 500-milligram THC gummies in the glove compartment ^[3]. Despite the findings, he was not arrested and instead issued a citation for the expired registration and a summons for possession ^[2]. The charge was formally filed by prosecutors on Monday, and a bench trial is scheduled for January 4, 2027 ^[1].

Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled with injuries since his rookie season, missing games in both 2024 and 2025 ^[1]. He was demoted to backup after the Colts signed Daniel Jones and his fifth-year option was declined in April, making him a free agent after the 2026 season.

The team issued a brief statement: "We are aware of the situation involving Anthony Richardson and are currently gathering additional information. We will have no further comment at this time." ^[3]. No disciplinary action has been announced.

The incident adds to a challenging period for the 24-year-old quarterback, who has faced scrutiny over his on-field decisions and health ^[1]. While no immediate impact on his NFL status is expected, the case could influence his future with the team or other franchises next season. The story was first reported by New York Post and TMZ.