The Indianapolis Colts are kicking off the 2025 preseason against the Baltimore Ravens, and Anthony Richardson is expected to get the start at quarterback.
Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Richardson will start and play “a quarter and a half” on Thursday, per ESPN’s Stephen Holder. Daniel Jones will then close out the first half. In Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers the role could reverse, with Jones starting for the same duration, and Richardson finishing the first half.
The Colts have yet to choose a starter for Week 1 of the regular season, but it appears to be Richardson in the lead for the job. Still, the coaching staff plans to evaluate both QBs in game action before making a final call.
Richardson Set for Early Test Against Ravens Defense
Being the preseason juggernauts they are, the Ravens defense should be the best Week 1 test imaginable for Richardson to test the waters on Thursday night.
He’s shown improved mechanics and timing in camp, and these reps offer a platform to gauge his on-field chemistry with the Colts’ wide receivers and his ability to manage pressure.
“I think everything’s cleaner right now,” Steichen said, per JJ Stankevitz of Colts.com. “He’s playing at a high level. He’s making good decisions with the football, taking the completions when needed. So, it’s been really good to see.”
Tyler Warren’s Emergence Could Help Settle Colts QB Battle
One of the biggest reasons for Richardson’s improved showing in camp has been rookie tight end Tyler Warren. After a quiet start, Warren has become one of the Colts’ most consistent performers on offense during training camp. He’s catching everything — in traffic, off-balance, mid-stride. And more importantly, he’s quickly becoming Richardson’s go-to option in critical situations.
Warren’s rise matters. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter pointed to the rookie’s hands and focus as a major reason the Colts drafted him in the first round. That’s now showing up on the field. In Friday’s full-team sessions, Richardson hit Warren on multiple key plays — quick outs, play-action reads, and one tough grab over the middle. It’s clear the Colts are expanding Warren’s role, and Richardson is building trust with him quickly.
That connection gives Richardson something he didn’t have last year: a reliable safety valve. With Michael Pittman Jr. and Adonai Mitchell stretching the field, Warren’s ability to win underneath and over the middle adds balance to the Colts’ passing game. That kind of trust and timing in camp can bleed into the preseason — especially against a defense like Baltimore’s that will force quick decisions and punish hesitation.
The Colts still haven’t officially named a Week 1 starter. Daniel Jones remains in the mix, but Richardson’s recent stretch has pushed him into the lead. If he plays well Thursday — efficient, decisive, in command — the quarterback conversation could shift dramatically. The Colts don’t want to drag this battle out. They need clarity. And Richardson has a clear opportunity to deliver it.
Warren’s emergence only boosts that chance. If he continues to produce and Richardson continues to lean on him, the Colts’ offense could find rhythm faster than expected. That starts Thursday in Baltimore.
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