NFL
Is There A Quarterback Controversy Brewing Between Colts & Anthony Richardson?
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At the 2025 NFL Combine, Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard did not commit to Anthony Richardson and said the team plans to have an open competition at quarterback.
What Did Chris Ballard Say About the Colts’ Quarterback Competition?
Chris Ballard 2025 Combine Press Conference https://t.co/bGQgLGqfum
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) February 25, 2025
Ballard spoke to the media on Tuesday and revealed the organization plans to create a competition for the starting quarterback position between Richardson and a player to be named later.
“It’s gotta be the right guy to create real competition,” Ballard said via Colts.com. “But we want to create real competition. I think it’s good for the team. I think it’s good for Anthony.”
Richardson’s NFL tenure has gotten off to a rocky start.
The Colts drafted the inexperienced Richardson with the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Richardson won the starting job during training camp and showed promise at the beginning of the 2023 season. Richardson threw for three touchdowns and rushed for four before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 5.
Richardson’s 2024 was extremely tumultuous. As a passer, Richardson had a league-worst 47.7% completion percentage and 12 interceptions. Richardson continued to show promise as a runner with six touchdowns.
At one point, Richardson was benched for the veteran Joe Flacco. The soon-to-be 23-year-old also missed several games due to injury.
Despite his struggles, Ballard still believes in Richardson and believes competition will make him a better quarterback.
“We drafted Anthony high knowing it was going to take some time and we knew there’s going to be some hiccups along the way,” Ballard said. “I know we all want a finished product right now. I do. You do. Fans do. We all do. But I think as he continues to progress in his young career, us adding competition, I think, will help up everybody’s game.”
How Will The Colts Create A QB Competition?
At a gathering of local media after his presser, Colts GM Chris Ballard was asked if had spoken to Anthony Richardson and to clarify that he (Ballard) did in fact mean it's an open competition at QB. #NFLCombine pic.twitter.com/Z33wr81VaC
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) February 25, 2025
To create a quarterback competition, you need at least two players.
Richardson’s spot in the competition is secure. However, the Colts must bring in another quarterback to compete for the job.
Ballard said he would consider all options, including free agency, the draft, or trades.
Jason Beans is the only quarterback on the roster.
Don’t expect the Colts to bring back Flacco at age 40.
Indianapolis could spend a late-round pick on a quarterback or take a flyer on an inexpensive player like Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, or Jameis Winston.
