The Indianapolis Colts are heading into the 2025 NFL season with one of the most intriguing quarterback rooms.
The hierarchy is set for the Colts. Daniel Jones will start the season under center, while Anthony Richardson continues to grow in his third campaign, and Riley Leonard figures to compete in his rookie year after an impressive preseason.
General manager Chris Ballard has been clear about his stance on Richardson.
“It’s easy to say he’s done and I’ve said this numerous times I do not agree with that… Overcoming obstacles and challenges along the way is good for anybody. I’m proud of where he’s at.”
Despite a rookie season cut short by a shoulder injury and a 2024 campaign that raised questions about his durability and decision-making, Ballard and the Colts organization aren’t throwing their Richardson cards in just yet.
Additional Support From Colts Teammates
Veteran wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has noticed Richardson’s progress firsthand at Colts camp this summer.
“The way that he’s been able to block out all of that outside noise, because he’s been getting a lot of shots fired at him from last year to now,” Pittman told Adams on Sunday. “His preparation wasn’t bad or not good before, but it’s gotten even to a higher level that he’s doing everything he can to put himself in the best position possible.”
Richardson’s toughness was also on display earlier this month. A dislocated pinky in the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens didn’t keep him from staying engaged on the sidelines, offering input and observing Jones’ reps when he took over.
At this stage, it’s possible that Richardson sees the bigger picture.
Balancing Present and Future At QB
The Colts aren’t entertaining trade talks for Richardson, as Ballard mentioned Thursday.
“There’s a lot of value in sitting behind a guy that’s a professional and watching and learning and growing and working on the things you need to work on without the same pressure of being the starter,” Ballard said, per ESPN’s Stephen Holder.
“I just feel like with the progress he’s making, [if] he continues down this road, we’re going to be able to see that talent come to light,” he said. “There’s always got to be one, right? So why not him? And I do believe that his progress has been good.”
Jones may have won the job for Week 1, but with his injury history and the long NFL season ahead, Richardson is still one play away from being called back into action.
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