The Indianapolis Colts have named Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback instead of Anthony Richardson. What does it mean for Richardson’s future with the Colts?
Daniel Jones Will Start For Colts
Daniel Jones has been named our starting QB.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) August 19, 2025
After one of the most talked-about training camp battles, head coach Shane Steichen has picked Jones as the team’s starting quarterback.
“I think he’s a veteran guy that’s been around the block, that’s seen a few things, and seeing how he interacts with his teammates and how they’ve taken to him and how he’s taken to them, I think he’s done a really nice job,” Steichen said about Jones via the Colts’ press conference. “Guys are excited for his opportunity.”
It may have ended badly in New York for Jones. However, Steichen hopes the Colts get the 2022 version of Jones, who accumulated nearly 4,000 yards of total offense, 15 passing touchdowns, and seven rushing touchdowns.
Jones led the Giants to the playoffs and won in the Wild Card Round against the Minnesota Vikings.
Jones has 14,582 passing yards with 70 touchdowns, 47 interceptions, and 15 rushing touchdowns in 70 games.
After spending last season with the Giants and Minnesota Vikings, Jones signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Colts in March.
Steichen elected to go with Jones’ experience over Richardson’s raw potential.
“I think the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t see with Daniel Jones is his work ethic, the way he connects with his teammates, the operational stuff — like I said at the start of this thing — in the huddle, the communication, the checks, all that,” Steichen said. “And I think we got a good group around him overall offensively — the weapons we have — that I feel he can be successful in it.”
On the possibility of playing Richardson this season, Steichen plans to stick it out with Jones for as long as he can.
“He’s our starting quarterback for the season,” Steichen added. “I don’t want to have a quick leash on that. I feel confident in his abilities.”
What Does This Mean For Anthony Richardson?
Coach Steichen announces Daniel Jones as starting QB. pic.twitter.com/wx6yIWr5Zy
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) August 19, 2025
Is this the final nail in the coffin for Richardson in Indianapolis? For this season, Richardson will serve as the backup quarterback.
If Jones gets injured or struggles to a point where the Colts need a spark, Richardson could see some playing time.
However, getting benched in consecutive seasons is not a great look for the fourth pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Richardson’s biggest problem has been inconsistent play, something Steichen has frequently cited as his reason to sit the former Florida Gator.
Richardson’s physical tools and running ability remain elite. However, his 47.7 completion percentage from a year ago is not going to earn you any playing time in the NFL.
If Richardson never sees the field in 2025, look for the Colts to trade him next offseason.
The Colts open the season against the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 7.
