The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for a highly anticipated quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. Jones, who was released by the New York Giants in November 2024, signed a one-year, $14 million deal with the Colts this past March. With two quarterbacks bringing distinct skill sets and experience levels, the battle for the starting job promises to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason.
At a press conference on Monday, Colts General Manager Chris Ballard emphasized the open nature of the competition. “We don’t want to begin with an end in mind,” Ballard stated, making it clear that the coaching staff intends to evaluate both players thoroughly before naming a starter. Ballard’s remarks reflect a commitment to meritocracy, ensuring that performance during offseason workouts, training camp, and preseason games will determine the team’s Week 1 starter.
Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, enters his third professional season as an athletic and dynamic dual-threat quarterback. Known for his ability to make explosive plays with both his arm and legs, Richardson has shown flashes of brilliance but has also struggled with consistency. After starting a portion of the 2024 season, he gained valuable experience but left room for improvement in his decision-making and accuracy. The Colts hope Richardson can harness his immense potential and solidify himself as the franchise’s quarterback of the future.
On the other hand, Daniel Jones brings veteran experience and a proven track record to the competition. After four seasons as the Giants’ starter, Jones experienced a rollercoaster career in New York. While he demonstrated moments of high-level play, inconsistency and turnovers often plagued his tenure. Following his release, the Colts saw an opportunity to bring in a quarterback with starting experience who could push Richardson and potentially stabilize the position in the short term. Jones’ familiarity with pro-style offenses and his ability to execute under pressure make him a compelling candidate to lead the Colts in 2025.
Head coach Shane Steichen is tasked with orchestrating the competition and ultimately selecting the quarterback who gives the team the best chance to win. Steichen, known for his innovative offensive schemes, has a history of working with young quarterbacks and tailoring game plans to their strengths. He will have the unenviable job of deciding whether to bet on Richardson’s upside or lean on Jones’ experience.
The Colts’ decision will also have ripple effects on the rest of the roster. An offense led by Richardson would likely emphasize mobility, read-option plays, and deep shots downfield, taking advantage of his athleticism. Conversely, a Jones-led offense might focus on quick reads, timing routes, and ball security, leveraging his steadier hand under center. Both scenarios present unique challenges and opportunities for the Colts’ offensive personnel.
Regardless of the outcome, the competition is expected to bring out the best in both quarterbacks. For Richardson, it’s an opportunity to cement his status as the Colts’ long-term solution. For Jones, it’s a chance to prove he still belongs as a starting quarterback in the NFL after a tumultuous exit from the Giants.
As the Colts prepare to enter this new chapter, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the pressure will be intense. The quarterback competition will not only shape the team’s fortunes in 2025 but also define the direction of the franchise for years to come. Colts fans can only wait with bated breath as the battle for QB1 unfolds
