At Indianapolis Colts training camp, quarterback Anthony Richardson’s flashes of talent are now overshadowed by notable struggles in the red zone. On Saturday at Grand Park, a red-zone drill exposed what many view as significant weaknesses in his decision-making and passing accuracy, heightening concerns about his readiness to lead the team in high-pressure situations. Head coach Shane Steichen’s patience appears to be wearing thin as this challenge complicates the quarterback situation.
Despite Richardson’s promising performances earlier in the week, Saturday’s red-zone session was marked by a sharp decline, including two interceptions between Richardson and backup quarterback Daniel Jones—the first such mistakes by either in a week. Observers noted Richardson’s difficulty in completing passes during this segment, which contrasted starkly with the strong showing he had just days prior.
Context and Breakdown of Red-Zone Drill Challenges
Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter explained that the team ran drop-back passes through consecutive 7-on-7 drills, where defenses often tighten coverage and compress passing lanes. While the on-paper results were disappointing, Cooter stressed the lessons these reps provided for the quarterbacks’ development.
“We do get a lot out of them,”
—Jim Bob Cooter, Offensive Coordinator
Nevertheless, Richardson’s uneven performance drew significant attention. His timing faltered, and key throws missed their marks in crucial moments. Analysts described this outing as his most inconsistent camp showing to date, especially compared to Daniel Jones, who, while also challenged, managed a steadier performance in the same setting.
“Richardson had by far his worst showing of camp thus far.”
—Reporter (unnamed)
Richardson’s unquestionable athleticism remains a strength, but coaches are increasingly questioning whether his decision-making can reliably endure live, tight-coverage pressure. This regression adds uncertainty to his development and complicates what had appeared to be a straightforward path for the emerging quarterback.
Shane Steichen’s Increasingly Difficult Quarterback Decision
Coach Shane Steichen now faces a difficult choice: continue to invest in Richardson’s high potential despite recent red-zone setbacks, or shift focus to the more consistent, if less explosive, Daniel Jones. The Colts’ owner, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, recently voiced confidence in Richardson’s prospects, emphasizing the role competition plays in driving improvement.
“He still has time to prove it … nothing brings a sense of urgency more than competition.”
—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Colts Owner
However, Richardson’s ongoing battle with right shoulder soreness, which delayed his offseason training, has limited his availability, inadvertently giving Jones more opportunities to take live reps. Jones does not possess Richardson’s ceiling but is steadily acclimating, providing the Colts with a more reliable presence during practices.
Observers highlight Jones’s smoother mechanics and his ability to operate within the Colts’ system without the volatility that often characterizes Richardson’s play. This consistency carries weight as the Colts’ coaching staff evaluates who should lead the team into the regular season.
Steichen, who last season benched Richardson for Joe Flacco amid similar inconsistency, now finds himself under renewed pressure. With Richardson’s struggles persisting in camp, the likelihood grows that Jones may be named the starter, at least temporarily, to safeguard the team’s offensive cohesion.
Preseason Schedule Adds Urgency to Quarterback Decision
The Colts’ impending preseason opener against the strong Baltimore Ravens defense intensifies the urgency to solidify the quarterback position. Starting Richardson without confidence in his red-zone execution could jeopardize both his long-term development and the team’s early performance. Steichen’s reluctance to declare a starter reflects this dilemma, but the next rounds of practice expect to provide clarity.
If Richardson cannot regain his earlier form soon, the window for developing his talent before game action will close rapidly. What initially appeared to be a strategic, patient build around a dynamic rookie is now influenced by pressing needs for stability and game-ready execution. The contrast between Richardson’s rookie hype based on athleticism and Jones’s steadier, if less spectacular, approach may ultimately decide who takes the field in Week 1.
Though Steichen may prefer to delay this crucial decision, circumstances are pushing him toward a resolution in the near future, as the Colts prepare for an important stretch of camp and competitive games.