The Indianapolis Colts haven’t named a starting quarterback yet, and Daniel Jones isn’t acting like the backup.
Through the first two weeks of Colts training camp, the competition between Jones and Anthony Richardson remains close. Richardson has made some serious noise to take the lead in the QB race. But the energy between the two has been surprisingly strong. Jones said as much Tuesday, breaking down how the QB room is working together.
“The communication in the meeting room or whatever it is off the field has been great,” Jones said, per ESPN’s Stephen Holder. “… It’s a great room to be a part of.”
Richardson, who’s entering his third season in Indianapolis, has helped Jones adjust to the scheme. Jones joined the Colts this offseason after stints with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings.
Colts Will Take A Look At QB Play In Preseason
Both quarterbacks are splitting first-team reps. Both have had solid moments. Richardson has the advantage of system familiarity. Jones has experience, polish, and poise. Colts coaches aren’t rushing the decision. They want the reps to sort it out.
Richardson isn’t treating this like a rivalry, either. He’s backed his teammate during practice and shown visible support on plays that don’t involve him.
The Colts open the preseason August 7. Richardson and Jones are both expected to see live snaps. The outcome of those games may help push one ahead of the other.
Jones has learned quickly and maintained solid command during his early camp appearances. Richardson looks more explosive but hasn’t consistently strung together dominant sessions. For now, it’s a day-to-day evaluation.
Injury Issues Could Add Pressure In QB Room
The quarterback situation wasn’t the only storyline Tuesday. The Colts suffered multiple injuries at key positions. Starting cornerback Jaylon Jones pulled up with a hamstring injury during one-on-ones and was carted off. He started all 17 games for Indianapolis last year.
Third-year corner JuJu Brents was already sidelined with a hamstring issue. With both corners out, the Colts are now dangerously thin in the secondary.
The offense took a hit too. WR Michael Pittman Jr. left practice early with a groin injury. No timeline has been given. Pittman is a core piece of the passing attack and the team’s top target in camp. His absence —if extended —could impact chemistry between quarterbacks and the wide receiver room.
The Colts have less than two weeks before their first preseason game. Until then, the QB competition will remain open. Live-game action is expected to be the biggest evaluation tool for head coach Shane Steichen and the staff.
Both quarterbacks bring a different style. Richardson is a threat on the ground and can extend plays. Jones is more of a rhythm passer who wins with timing and field vision. Indianapolis is watching closely to see who can consistently move the offense under pressure.
Jones is adapting to the system, getting support from the guy he’s trying to beat out, and giving the team a viable option if Richardson doesn’t take the next step.
The Colts are comfortable with either option.
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