The Colts are done with the NFL Draft and have added eight new players to the roster. But all eyes are now on the quarterback battle that will define the 2025 season. According to Yahoo! Sports senior writer Frank Schwab, this is one of the top storylines in the league.
The Quarterback Duel That Could Define the Colts’ Season
We all know Anthony Richardson had a rough sophomore season in 2024. His passing percentage (47.7%) and ball security (12 interceptions and 9 fumbles in 11 games) were awful. So, general manager Chris Ballard brought in veteran quarterback Daniel Jones on a one year deal.
Jones has not exactly been a success the last few years (13 losses in 16 games) but, he was a more accurate passer than Richardson. But, he hasn’t translated that into wins, a big problem for any starter.
Now the Colts are at a crossroads. Will Richardson step up and prove he deserves another shot? Or will Jones take advantage of the opportunity to be an NFL starter?
Why This QB Battle Matters?
For Anthony Richardson, this is his last chance to prove he’s the Colts’ franchise quarterback. After a rough 2024 season where his accuracy (47.7%), turnovers (12 INTs in 11 games), and ball security (9 fumbles) were all major issues, the Colts went to free agency for help. Enter Daniel Jones, who, despite leading the Giants to losing seasons the last few years, has been a more consistent passer.
Jones may not have been a winning quarterback in New York, but he can avoid big mistakes and manage games – at least for now. But Richardson’s ceiling is much higher. His athleticism, speed, and deep ball potential fits Shane Steichen’s offense better. The question is, will Richardson take the next step or will Jones seize the opportunity to get back in the starting role.
As Schwab said, “The Colts brought in Daniel Jones to compete with Anthony Richardson, the 4th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, who hasn’t played well enough to be the Colts’ established starter going into year three. The Colts want Richardson to find consistency and win the job. The question is, starting with OTAs, will Richardson respond to the competition?”
What’s at Stake for Both Quarterbacks?
This isn’t just about who starts Week 1—it’s about the future of both players’ careers. For Richardson, not impressing could label him a bust just three years into his NFL journey. For Jones, he needs to show he’s still a starter in the league. Whoever loses this duel may be relegated to backup duty moving forward which adds even more pressure to an already tense situation.
Note that while the Colts signed Jones, they probably prefer things to work out with Richardson. After all, investing a top-four draft pick comes with expectations and giving up on Richardson this early would be tough to swallow. But the organization has to win, and if Jones is the better option, they have no choice but to go that way.
A Make-or-Break Year for the Colts
Beyond the quarterback competition, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the Colts. Under Shane Steichen, they’re 17-17 the last two years and fans are getting restless, and ownership won’t tolerate another mediocre season.
To quiet the critics, the Colts need to win 10+ games and make the playoffs. Anything less and it’s sweeping changes within the organization. With so much on the line this season, the quarterback decision becomes even more important. A strong leader under center can elevate the whole team, while continued uncertainty can be disastrous.
What’s Next?
The spotlight will intensify once OTAs start, as both Richardson and Jones will get their chances to show off. How each quarterback handles the competition and how the coaches evaluate them will be the headlines throughout training camp and preseason.
Will Richardson rise to the occasion and live up to his hype? Or will Jones step in and provide stability? Either way this quarterback saga will be must-see TV for fans and analysts as the Colts try to turn the page and become relevant in 2025.