On August 13, 2025, the Indianapolis Colts made a significant roster move that impacts quarterback Anthony Richardson’s offensive options. The team placed wide receiver D.J. Montgomery on the Injured Reserve list, simultaneously signing defensive end Marcus Haynes. This decision introduces a difficult challenge for Richardson, whose rhythm and chemistry with his receivers are critical to his progression this season.
D.J. Montgomery has been a dependable depth player rather than a star, yet his role in steadying the receiving corps and providing consistent third-down reliability has been valuable. Anthony Richardson, navigating through injuries himself—including a recently dislocated pinkie—relied on the trust and timing established with receivers like Montgomery to maintain offensive momentum and confidence under pressure. Removing Montgomery from active duty reduces the pool of experienced options for the young quarterback, potentially complicating his return to form as he aims to solidify his third NFL season.
D.J. Montgomery’s Role and Resilience within the Colts’ Offense
Montgomery’s NFL career statistics may reflect modest numbers—10 games, 6 catches, 92 yards, and a touchdown—but his presence extended beyond the stat sheet. Known as a practice squad warrior and a third-down specialist, Montgomery earned his place through grit and reliability. His ability to rebound from adversity was demonstrated in the 2023 Week 15 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where after a critical dropped pass on a fourth down, he redeemed himself with a 34-yard catch followed by a 14-yard touchdown catch on the next drive.
“That was fun, that was a good feeling. I haven’t had a good feeling like that in a long time.”
—D.J. Montgomery, Wide Receiver
This determination and consistency fortified the offense, especially valuable for a quarterback like Richardson who depends on timing and dependable targets when the pocket erodes and improvisation becomes necessary. Losing Montgomery to IR disrupts this dynamic just as Richardson strives to regain momentum in a season with high expectations.
Marcus Haynes Joins Colts’ Defensive Ranks
To offset the loss of Montgomery, the Colts signed Marcus Haynes, a defensive end with experience across several NFL practice squads including the Broncos, Texans, Browns, and Steelers since 2023. Haynes most recently played for the UFL’s San Antonio Brahmas, recording 7 tackles and 1 sack in two games this year. At Old Dominion University, Haynes was productive, registering 102 tackles, 15 sacks, and 22 tackles-for-loss, demonstrating his potential as a rotational player and special teams contributor.
While Haynes brings valuable depth to the Colts’ defense, his arrival does little to alleviate the offensive void facing Richardson. This move underscores a strategic emphasis on defense, but it also highlights the inherent trade-off between bolstering the defensive line and shrinking the offensive playbook available to the team’s young quarterback.
Challenges Ahead for Anthony Richardson Without a Trusted Receiver
Head Coach Shane Steichen, known for his offense that prioritizes precision and adaptability, builds his strategies around strong pillars: Character, Preparation, Consistency, and Relentlessness. Removing Montgomery from the active roster weakens the preparation and consistency crucial for a quarterback in Richardson’s position. Without Montgomery’s dependable presence, Richardson will likely need to rely on less proven receivers or rookie call-ups, increasing the degree of difficulty in both practice and game execution.
For Richardson, who has often showcased electrifying athleticism but has struggled with injuries, having fewer reliable targets slightly constricts his offensive options. The playbook narrows, third-down reads become more precarious, and the margin for error tightens. This personnel change can be seen as more than just a simple roster adjustment; it threatens to impact Anthony Richardson’s development and confidence, both key components for his long-term success with the Colts.
The Symbolism of The Anvil and Its Relevance to Colts’ Current Struggles
The Anvil—the booming clang that resonates on game day at Lucas Oil Stadium—symbolizes the toughness and relentless spirit of the Indianapolis Colts. Anthony Richardson embodies this toughness, famously competing even while nursing a dislocated finger. However, no quarterback, regardless of resilience, thrives without dependable teammates. Montgomery’s injury and ensuing absence represent a significant crack in the support system around Richardson.
Though bolstering the defense with Haynes could contribute to stabilizing other phases of the game, it leaves the quarterback’s side facing an immediate shortfall. The Colts’ offensive cohesion will be tested as they adapt to this shift, and Richardson’s ability to regain confidence and tempo under these conditions will be critical moving forward.
Implications for the Colts’ Season and the Road Ahead
By placing D.J. Montgomery on Injured Reserve, the Colts have adjusted their roster in a way that gains defensive depth but sacrifices offensive stability. This roster move may weigh on Anthony Richardson’s rhythm during a pivotal stage in his career. The Colts must now look to other receivers to fill the gap, potentially accelerating the development of less experienced players in high-pressure situations.
As the team progresses toward the regular season, the balance between reinforcing the defense and maintaining offensive continuity will be closely monitored. For Anthony Richardson, the path to rebuilding his momentum will require adaptability, patience, and the emergence of new trusted connections within the receiver group. How effectively the Colts navigate this challenge could have a lasting impact on the trajectory of their 2025 campaign.