With Indianapolis Colts training camp set to open next week, Anthony Richardson appears ready to compete for the starting quarterback role against veteran Daniel Jones. According to ESPN’s Stephen Holder, Richardson has recovered from the shoulder injury that sidelined him during mandatory minicamp.
Holder noted that the Colts might monitor Richardson’s workload early in camp as he gradually regains full strength, especially since Richardson has been actively throwing with velocity while training privately in Florida. This development is crucial for the Colts as they prepare to evaluate their quarterback options before the regular season begins.
Background on Richardson’s Rookie Season and Injury Setbacks
Colts veterans, including Richardson, are expected to arrive at camp on July 22. The 23-year-old was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL draft out of Florida despite starting only one collegiate season. His rookie year, however, was disrupted by an AC joint sprain in his shoulder, requiring surgery and cutting his season short after just four games.
Richardson aggravated that same injury during offseason OTAs this summer, which caused him to miss minicamp. Last season, he began as the Colts’ starting quarterback but also missed time due to an oblique injury. His on-field struggles contributed to a brief benching in favor of former Colts quarterback Joe Flacco.
Despite regaining the starting job, Richardson’s performance in 2024 was inconsistent. Over 11 starts, he posted a 6-5 record but completed only 47.7 percent of his passes for 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He also contributed 499 rushing yards and scored six touchdowns on the ground.
Competition Intensifies with Daniel Jones Joining the Colts
In an attempt to push Richardson and strengthen the quarterback position, the Colts signed Daniel Jones to a one-year contract during free agency. Jones, selected sixth overall in the 2021 draft, had a standout 2022 season leading the New York Giants to the playoffs. That year, Jones completed 67.2 percent of his passes, throwing for 3,205 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions, along with rushing for 708 yards and seven touchdowns.
However, Jones’s career has faced setbacks since then. A torn ACL ended his 2023 season after a 1-5 start, and he finished the following campaign with a 2-8 record, leading to his release from the Giants. His arrival in Indianapolis sets up a direct competition with Richardson for the starting role.
Implications for Colts’ Quarterback Depth and Season Outlook
If Richardson can participate fully in training camp, it will allow head coach Shane Steichen and the Colts’ coaching staff to thoroughly assess both quarterbacks‘ readiness and potential before making a decision. This evaluation is particularly important as the Colts prepare to face the Miami Dolphins in their season opener on September 7.
The quarterback battle between Richardson and Jones will likely shape the Colts’ offense in 2025, making their health and performance in camp critical for the team’s prospects moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Anthony Richardson’s hip?
A. The injury happened during a planned running play for Richardson. A defender from the Steelers grabbed him from behind, making him twist awkwardly. Then, another defender tackled him. Before hurting his hip, Richardson completed three of his first four passes, gaining 71 yards.
Q. How fast can Anthony Richardson throw?
A. Quarterback Anthony Richardson from the Florida Gators and Dorian Thompson-Robinson from UCLA Bruins demonstrate their throwing speed, reaching between 59 and 62 miles per hour.
Q. Can I drop Anthony Richardson?
A. In many one-quarterback leagues, it’s best to let Richardson go. This season, he’s not performed well as a quarterback for the Colts. His difficulties were clear in Week 7 against the Dolphins, where he completed only 41.7% of his passes and gained just 129 yards without scoring any touchdowns.
Q. How long did Anthony Richardson’s tattoo take?
A. Anthony Richardson, who plays for the Indianapolis Colts, spent seven hours under anesthesia getting a tattoo on his back. The design reflects his passion for God and gambling. It features an angel, a roulette wheel, a Spartan, and a lion.