On Monday at Grand Park in Westfield, Indiana, the Indianapolis Colts conducted their first fully padded practice of the 2025 training camp, marking an important step in their preseason preparations. Anthony Richardson delivered an impressive display during this session, standing out alongside fellow quarterback Daniel Jones, as both showed marked improvement since the camp’s start the previous Wednesday. This development underscores the growing intensity and physical nature of the Colts’ practice environment as the players adapt to the demands of the upcoming season.
Rise in Physicality Highlights Practice Intensity
The addition of pads brought a noticeable increase in physicality and competitive energy to the field, with defensive players stepping up their aggressiveness and the offense facing greater pressure. Cornerback Kenny Moore II emphasized the importance of the pads in adjusting the game pace, stating,
“You just can’t play without the pads being on,”
as the defense consistently challenged the offense throughout the session.
Both Richardson and Jones remained protected by their red jerseys and avoided contact, yet the elevated pressure forced them to sharpen their decision-making and pocket movement. This acceleration in competitive dynamics made Monday’s practice the strongest showing from the quarterbacks to date in camp.
Quarterbacks Exhibit Poise and Accuracy Under Pressure
Head coach Shane Steichen praised the quarterbacks for their composure, noting that although Richardson and Jones did not endure hits, they needed to contend with tighter defensive rushes.
“They’re not getting hit, but they gotta know,”
Steichen said.
“Obviously, the rush is going to be a little tighter, but they just gotta be able to move in the pocket, create space, know when to step up, know when to escape. All those things come into play whether we’re in pads or not pads, it’s all part of it.”
Steichen emphasized the quality of their performance, adding,
“Both of them were solid. They’re throwing the ball with accuracy, with rhythm, timing. Had some big plays down the field, so very pleased with both those guys.”
Offensive Development Focuses on Run Game and Passing Depth
Team drills predominantly targeted the run game and short passing routes, training areas fundamental to the Colts’ offensive identity. Nonetheless, both Richardson and Jones also exhibited their ability to successfully execute deep throws, signaling growth in their skill sets. Richardson completed a contested sideline catch to tight end Will Mallory during a seven-on-seven period, while Jones connected with wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Ashton Dulin on multiple deep routes in 11-on-11 drills.
The quarterbacks consistently demonstrated accuracy on short and intermediate passes, often finding receivers despite tight coverage. Richardson, in particular, showed progress in delivering layered passes within narrow windows, an important skill for production against <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL defenses.
Emphasis on Passing Precision and Timing
Coach Steichen reflected on the importance of throwing accuracy and understanding the offense, saying,
“You got to throw these tight windows in this league, and that accuracy and how to layer the ball and how to know when to throw it and how to throw it is big. Obviously, going into year three, the timing, knowing the offense better.”
The focus on timing and precision is a key factor in the quarterbacks’ ongoing development as they vie for the starting role.
Steichen confirmed that Richardson and Jones will continue to share snaps evenly with the first-team offense, stating his plan to allow the competition to “play out” naturally without announcing a starter prematurely.
Notable Player Performances and Practice Highlights
The Monday session delivered several standout moments beyond the quarterback battle. Wide receiver Alec Pierce missed practice due to a blister on his foot, as confirmed by the coaching staff, but other players made noteworthy contributions.
- Tight end Will Mallory successfully caught multiple passes from both quarterbacks, including a highlight deep reception on the sideline from Richardson.
- Running backs Jonathan Taylor and DJ Giddens displayed both speed and physicality, frequently breaking through the defensive line during 11-on-11 drills.
- Defensively, cornerback Jaylon Jones made an impressive showing in one-on-one drills, breaking up a pass intended for Michael Pittman Jr. and totaling four stops in as many attempts.
- Kenny Moore II continued his strong defensive work by disrupting two passes aimed at wide receiver Josh Downs in one-on-one coverage.
- Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell excelled in a one-on-one drill, successfully outperforming cornerback Charvarius Ward for a deep catch downfield.
- Justin Walley demonstrated good coverage skills, breaking up a pass meant for tight end Tyler Warren in seven-on-seven drills.
- Richardson connected with Mitchell on a precise throw through dense coverage in an 11-on-11 drill, while Jones linked with Ashton Dulin on consecutive plays.
Upcoming Week to Maintain Camp Momentum
The Colts will continue their 2025 training camp at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana, this week. The focus will remain on developing chemistry across the roster and fine-tuning both offensive and defensive units as the preseason progresses.
The rookie class has already begun making solid impressions, with tight end Tyler Warren and cornerback Justin Walley drawing early praise for their contributions during non-padded practices. Veteran players like Reggie Wayne are expected to sustain a competitive environment as the Colts prepare for the season.
Attention will also turn toward maintaining defensive pressure under coordinator Lou Anarumo’s complex schemes, ensuring quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson face rigorous challenges designed to sharpen their skills and decision-making.
Training Camp Progress Reflects Uncertainty and Hope
As the Colts navigate the early stages of training camp, a careful balance of intensity and cautious optimism defines the team‘s mindset. The healthy competition between Richardson and Jones for the quarterback position highlights the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming season, yet their improved performances offer promise to fans and coaches alike.
Ultimately, the progress made during these early practices, especially in full pads, will play a critical role in shaping the Colts’ identity for 2025 and beyond. The results of this training camp could set the tone for a season shaped by resilience, growth, and the continued emergence of key players across the roster.