The Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback contest this offseason was closely watched, but the main spotlight centered on the battle between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. Richardson, the Colts’ 2023 first-round pick, has yet to reach his full potential, while Jones, a former high draft choice himself, aims to revive a faltering career after several difficult seasons with the New York Giants. On Tuesday, Colts head coach Shane Steichen revealed that Jones will start the team’s Week 1 game against the Miami Dolphins on September 7, officially concluding the competition.
As the team’s top-four draft selection, Richardson losing the starting role is a significant setback. His replacement by Jones introduces major doubts about his future as an NFL quarterback, a sentiment strongly expressed by ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith.
Stephen A. Smith Questions Richardson’s Future Following Colts’ Decision
Stephen A. Smith voiced serious concerns about what the Colts’ choice signals for Richardson’s career prospects. He emphasized how naming Jones the starter reflects a deep lack of confidence in the young player, whose development is now under question.
Anthony Richardson’s football career is in jeopardy … Daniel Jones being the starting quarterback for the Colts for Week 1. Boy, does that show a lack of faith in Richardson, who they spent a top four pick on. It’s bad for him,
Stephen A. said on First Take.
The analyst also criticized Jones’ credentials, highlighting his unimpressive track record during his tenure in New York.
Because there’s nobody out here that believes that Daniel Jones is a worthy starter for your franchise… His career with the New York Giants is 24-44-1 record as a starter … speaks for itself. We’ve seen more blooper reels from Daniel Jones than highlights,
he added.
Coach Shane Steichen Explains Confidence in Daniel Jones as Season Starter
Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who heavily supported selecting Richardson initially, expressed confidence in Jones’ leadership qualities and veteran presence. According to Steichen, Jones has earned trust both on and off the field, fostering positive relationships within the locker room.
I think the guys have taken to him. He’s a great communicator with the guys. You can see that veteran presence out there. So, I’m excited for that,
Steichen said.
Steichen further clarified that the decision to start Jones is not a short-term experiment, but a commitment for the entire 2025 season, provided Jones maintains his performance level.
He’s our starting quarterback for the season. I don’t want to have a quick leash on that. I feel confident in his abilities.
Richardson’s Development Plan as Backup for the 2025 Season
Despite the setback, Steichen remains optimistic about Richardson’s growth trajectory. Recognizing Richardson’s limited college playing experience, Steichen views the backup role as an opportunity for the young quarterback to learn in a less pressured environment.
He’s still learning, still growing. And for the first time in his career, this is an opportunity for him to sit at the start of a season and learning in a different light and attack it the right way.
Evaluating Richardson’s Future Beyond the Current Season
The Colts face important decisions regarding Richardson’s long-term future, especially with his fifth-year contract option for 2027 approaching. Having Jones start all 17 games this season could complicate the team’s ability to properly assess Richardson’s potential as a franchise quarterback. Moreover, Jones himself is not the prototypical veteran mentor many teams would prefer for grooming their young signal-caller.
It is expected that Jones will start most games throughout the year unless poor performance or injury creates opportunities for Richardson to gain playing time. The Colts’ management will closely monitor both quarterbacks’ progress to determine who best fits their vision moving forward.