The Indianapolis Colts are entering Week 1 with a renewed sense of hope and expectation.
Daniel Jones rolls in as the starter against the Miami Dolphins on September 7, and all eyes are on him to see how he will elevate Shane Steichen’s offense beyond what the team accomplished in the past two seasons.
Jones is not necessarily a high-ceiling quarterback, but he is efficient, safe with the football, and fully committed to running the system — the last deciding factor of the QB1 battle. His ability to manage games and limit turnovers gives the Colts a stable presence under center that they lacked at times with Anthony Richardson.
Strengths and Limitations
Jones’ efficiency and accuracy are unquestioned, but the most notable weakness is his reluctance to push the ball downfield. Unlike Richardson, Jones favors shorter, easier throws to keep the offense moving in small increments.
Pro Football Focus’ John Kosko highlighted this limitation.
“While this is also Goff’s weakness, Jones’ lack of playmaking is an even bigger extreme. He has a combined 26 big-time throws across the past four seasons. Jones won the Colts’ starting job this offseason, and he should do a good job keeping the offense on schedule compared to Richardson, but his lack of playmaking ability might be a problem for the team in 2025.”
Jones will keep the offense on schedule and reduce turnovers, but deep threats like Alec Pierce may see fewer opportunities to stretch the field. Richardson is widely recognized for his playmaking ability, but Jones won the starting job due to consistency and decision-making.
Now that the opportunity is his, he must show that he can not only manage games but also help the Colts exceed an eight- or nine-win ceiling. Success this season could reshape the quarterback conversation in Indianapolis and force the front office to consider Richardson’s future more thoroughly.
Jones’ First Test and the Road Ahead
Fans should anticipate a more controlled and methodical Colts offense with Jones. There will be fewer deep, high-risk throws, but more consistent drives that keep the ball moving and the defense off balance.
Jones’ ability to read defenses, protect the football, and make quick decisions will be vital, especially early in the season while he builds chemistry with Michael Pittman Jr., and the rest of the receiving corps.
If Jones can combine steady game management with timely big plays, the Colts may exceed expectations in 2025.
Week 1 against Miami is more than just another regular-season opener; it’s a measuring stick for how well Jones can adapt to the Colts’ system and maximize the roster’s potential.
He enters the year knowing that consistency is expected, mistakes will be magnified, and his ability to integrate vertical shots into a safe game plan will define success. Indianapolis is betting that Jones’ experience and approach can provide the stability the team needs to compete in the AFC South and beyond.
With the offense in his hands, Jones’ 2025 campaign could be a turning point for the Colts’ future, shaping both the season and the long-term quarterback landscape in Indianapolis.
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