Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has praised the strong competition between quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson as the team prepares for the upcoming <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL season. Both players have earned mutual respect through their hard work and determination during training camp, reflecting the Colts’ search for a starting quarterback. Buckner, who recently signed a two-year, $46 million contract extension, observed this spirited quarterback competition following Jones’ recent one-year, $14 million deal.
Buckner emphasized the professionalism shared by both quarterbacks amid the uncertainty about Week One’s starter. He noted,
“They came in both prepared, ready to go. They’re working together. They celebrate each other, even though they’re in competition, and that’s what you love to see,”
—DeForest Buckner, Defensive Tackle.
Equal opportunities for Jones and Richardson intensify competition
The Colts have ensured that both Jones and Richardson receive equal repetitions during practice, fostering an environment where each player remains prepared. Buckner shared insight into how this approach benefits the team, stating,
“You know they’re both getting equal reps, and you know at the end of the day the coach is going to make the decision and the team’s going to rally behind whoever it is, but we all know whoever that next guy is, we know he’s going to stay ready,”
—DeForest Buckner, Defensive Tackle.
Anthony Richardson started 11 games last season after recovering from an injury that limited him to four appearances as a rookie. He completed 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in a 6-5 record as starter. Daniel Jones, meanwhile, was released by the New York Giants last November after losing his starting role and ended the season backing up Sam Darnold with the Minnesota Vikings.
Defensive advantage from facing two distinct quarterback styles
Buckner pointed out the value the Colts defense gains by preparing for two quarterbacks with different playing styles. This variety challenges the defensive line in multiple ways and helps maintain their sharpness.
“We get to see obviously two different guys, two different looks… it keeps us prepared, on our feet, especially in the passing game. You know as a D-line, keeping our rush lanes, making sure we have the quarterback contained and not leaving big passing lanes open. So they both provide that for us,”
—DeForest Buckner, Defensive Tackle.
During the Colts’ preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens, Jones completed 10 of 21 passes for 144 yards, while Richardson threw for 23 yards on 2 completions from 3 attempts. The Colts fell 24-16 in that contest.
External critiques raise questions about quarterback projections
Despite the positive remarks from Buckner, some analysts remain skeptical about the quarterbacks’ potential. Mike Sando of The Athletic recently ranked all NFL quarterbacks for the 2025 season, placing Daniel Jones 30th and Anthony Richardson 32nd, both falling into the lowest tier. Criticism from coaches cited Jones’ inconsistency, with one offensive coach stating, “I get nervous with Jones.” Another added,
“I understand if you are not very good on offense and cannot protect, there will plays when you look bad, but there are too many times where he has a guy wide open and he throws it in the dirt or 10 feet over his head.”
Regarding Richardson, a defensive coordinator commented,
“He’s a freaky athlete for his size, but he’s been hurt every year because of it.”
The coordinator also noted,
“Unless he is rearing back and throwing the ball as far as he can and somebody runs underneath it, he’s not accurate and can’t make any of those throws.”
Coach’s decision on starting QB hinges on consistency
Head coach Shane Steichen has indicated that the quarterback who demonstrates steady performance during the preseason will earn the starting role when the Colts open their regular season against the Miami Dolphins on September 7 at Lucas Oil Stadium. This decision will mark a key moment for the Colts as they seek to solidify their offense behind either Daniel Jones or Anthony Richardson.