The recent release of The Athletic’s annual Quarterback Tiers survey has placed the Indianapolis Colts under the spotlight, not for a top-tier star but due to the rankings of their quarterbacks. Daniel Jones was rated 30th overall with an average Tier 4.0 score by a panel of 50 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL coaches and executives. This tier generally includes either unproven players without enough game film or veterans not suited to start all 17 games. Jones narrowly ranked ahead of Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ rookie seen as their long-term solution, who came in 32nd with a Tier 4.2 rating. The slim margin underscores the current perception that the veteran Jones is more dependable than Richardson’s unproven potential.
Jones’ Experience Gives Him an Edge Despite Preseason Challenges
Daniel Jones maintained a Tier 4 ranking similar to last year, although his average score fell slightly. His reputation as a steadier option stems from his significant NFL experience, including 60 career starts and guiding the New York Giants to the playoffs. Despite an inconsistent tenure, Jones is viewed as a capable if limited starter, especially valued for his ability to manage an offense, make prudent decisions, and protect the ball under pressure. These traits often carry considerable weight in evaluations over raw physical attributes.
Jones’s first preseason appearance for the Colts, however, did not excite many. He completed 10 of 21 passes for 144 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions, playing five drives after Richardson exited due to injury. This performance highlighted lingering questions about his ceiling but did little to diminish his standing relative to Richardson at this stage.
Anthony Richardson’s Ranking Reflects Injury Setbacks and Limited Playing Time
Anthony Richardson’s lower placement largely reflects his limited availability rather than a lack of talent. Injuries have restricted him to a small sample size across his first two NFL seasons, making it difficult for evaluators to grant him a higher tier. Despite this, several anonymous voters have praised his rare athleticism and ability to challenge defenses with his dual-threat play style.
Until Richardson can complete a full, healthy season, display poise during crucial late-game passing situations, and demonstrate improved defensive reads, his potential remains largely unproven in the eyes of many evaluators. His skill set fits perfectly with Colts offensive coordinator Shane Steichen’s system, which emphasizes leveraging the quarterback’s mobility and playmaking abilities. If Richardson stays healthy, he likely will have ample opportunity to reclaim and solidify the starting role.
Implications for Colts’ Quarterback Room and Future Prospects
The current QB Tier rankings offer a glimpse into how the Colts quarterback lineup is perceived throughout the league, emphasizing a state of uncertainty and cautious optimism. The ranking gap between Jones and Richardson is more a reflection of experience and availability than talent discrepancy. For a team hoping to launch a sustained resurgence in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC by 2025, the evolving quarterback situation will be crucial to monitor.
With Jones serving as a short-term bridge and Richardson representing the long-term investment, the Colts must balance the hope for Richardson’s growth against the immediacy of Jones’s readiness. This dynamic carries significant weight for the franchise’s strategy and anticipated success as the season progresses.
“Jones has shown he can manage an offense, protect the football in spurts, and execute within structure, qualities evaluators often value when the alternative is a talented but largely unproven player.” —Anonymous Evaluator