The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant decision to lean on veteran quarterback Daniel Jones for the upcoming NFL season, as Anthony Richardson continues to recover from lingering injury issues. This move comes just weeks after it was revealed that Richardson would miss mandatory minicamp due to soreness in his right shoulder, the same one he underwent AC joint surgery on during his rookie year. This development places the spotlight on Jones and his potential to revitalize his career while filling the void left by Richardson’s injury setbacks.
Head coach Shane Steichen has expressed the team’s commitment to honoring the late team owner Jim Irsay’s legacy by pursuing success this season. Yet, the injury woes surrounding Richardson have forced the Colts to adapt quickly, resulting in general manager Chris Ballard’s spring signing of Daniel Jones to foster competition and provide stability at quarterback. Jones, who declined a chance to return to the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad, appeared to enter Indianapolis with a strong intention to compete for the starting job, especially given Richardson’s uncertain health status.
Daniel Jones Quickly Adapts and Impresses Coaches
During the mandatory minicamp, Daniel Jones received the first-team reps, showcasing his grasp of the Colts’ offense and decision-making skills. Shane Steichen praised Jones for his quick learning curve and football intelligence, highlighting his ability to acclimate swiftly.
“He’s done a really nice job for us acclimating to the offense, learning the system. Obviously, a smart guy, [he] understands it. He’s picked it up real nice, and he’s done some good things so far.” —Shane Steichen, Indianapolis Colts Head Coach
Jones’ presence on the field during minicamp underlined the Colts’ growing confidence in his capabilities, especially as Richardson was sidelined. The team‘s strategy appears to be tilting towards the veteran’s experience while Richardson works toward full recovery and readiness for training camp.
High-Stakes QB Battle Favors Jones Amid Richardson’s Limitations
The question of who will start at quarterback in Week 1 has sparked intense debate among experts and fans alike. Former Colts quarterback Matt Hasselbeck weighed in on the situation during a recent episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, making a striking prediction favoring Daniel Jones.
“Now, Anthony Richardson isn’t able to throw… he’s got a complication from an AC joint. To me, Daniel Jones is going to be the starting quarterback in Indianapolis, no question about it.” —Matt Hasselbeck, Former Colts QB
Hasselbeck likened Jones’ opportunity in Indianapolis to a career renaissance, similar to what quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield experienced. He noted Jones’ dual-threat ability as a runner, drawing parallels to Jalen Hurts’ rise in Philadelphia under head coach Shane Steichen’s guidance. Jones’ 700 rushing yards during his playoff season with the New York Giants demonstrate his versatility beyond his passing.
Hasselbeck also touched on the familiar atmosphere Jones faces in Indy, noting the comparison many have made between Richardson and Peyton Manning, who famously led the Colts for many years.
“I think the upside is there with Anthony Richardson. No doubt about that. But there are some things that I think give some people some pause. I don’t know if he’ll be able to come back with that organization from tapping out when he was out of breath after a scramble. That was a big misfire to a lot of people.” —Matt Hasselbeck, Former Colts QB
Reliability vs. Potential: The Colts’ Quarterback Dilemma
While Anthony Richardson’s potential remains undeniable, his injury history and inconsistency have raised concerns within the Colts’ organization and fan base. Richardson has missed more games (17) than he has started (15) in his first two NFL seasons, underscoring his durability issues. Conversely, Daniel Jones brings reliability and NFL experience, having started 69 games to date.
With Richardson still rehabbing, Jones continues to show the steadiness the team needs. Hasselbeck summarized the situation with stark clarity:
“It’s an open competition. One guy’s healthy right now and the other guy’s not.” —Matt Hasselbeck, Former Colts QB
The Colts’ $14 million investment in Jones now looks like a crucial insurance policy as Richardson watches from the sidelines. This shift provides the team with a safer option at quarterback as they navigate the early stages of the season.
Implications for the Colts Moving Forward
The decision to prioritize Daniel Jones over Anthony Richardson highlights the Colts’ pragmatic approach as they balance ambition with injury realities. Jones’ early command of the offense and physical readiness set the tone for a competitive training camp and potentially a new era under center. Meanwhile, Richardson’s road to full health remains a focal point for the organization, with hopes that he can regain his promise in due time.
Fans and analysts will closely monitor how this quarterback competition unfolds, knowing that the Colts’ ability to compete in a challenging AFC South division will hinge greatly on who ultimately seizes the starting role. With Jones positioned as the front-runner for now, the Colts aim to capitalize on his experience while preserving Richardson’s future potential.