Can Colts Quarterbacks Prove Their Doubters Wrong?

Can Colts Quarterbacks Prove Their Doubters Wrong?

The Oft-injured Anthony Richardson

Ever since Andrew Luck retired in 2019, the Colts have been searching for a franchise quarterback. Players like Carson Wentz and Matt Ryan weren’t the answer.

Anthony Richardson, whom the Colts drafted fourth overall in 2023, was supposed to be the guy. But thus far, his career has been derailed due to injury. Richardson missed all but four games during his rookie season. Then last year, he dealt with injuries once again, was benched temporarily, and had a “tap out for being too tired” moment.

When Richardson played last season, he struggled mightily as a passer. He completed only 47.7 percent of his passes. Yes, that type of completion percentage simply won’t suffice as an NFL starting quarterback.

Daniel Jones: From Contract Extension to the Bench

Daniel Jones entered the league in 2019, drafted by the New York Giants sixth overall. Like Richardson, his career has been far from perfect.

Jones did have a solid season, though, in 2022. That year, he passed for 3,205 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also rushed for 708 yards and seven touchdowns. More importantly, Jones helped lead the Giants to a playoff win.

Jones’ 2022 season led to a massive $160 million extension. However, his career fell off a cliff after that. He tore his ACL in 2023. Then last season, Jones was benched and released by the Giants. He later signed with the Minnesota Vikings, but never played a game with them.

The Colts signed Jones this offseason. He’s currently competing with Anthony Richardson for the starting quarterback job.

What Must They Do to Change Doubters’ Minds?

Anthony Richardson hasn’t had a great career, but he can still turn things around in Indy. For that to happen, though, he must stay healthy. Richardson has been bitten by the injury bug already this year. He suffered a dislocated finger during the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Thankfully, it wasn’t a serious injury.

Richardson also has to improve his accuracy. There’s no ifs, ands, or buts about it. If he can somehow stay healthy, improve his passing, and lead the Colts to the playoffs, Richardson will certainly change people’s minds about him.

Richardson is expected to be the Colts’ starter come Week 1 of the regular season. But due to injury or subpar play, Jones could wind up replacing him.

If that’s the case, perhaps Jones can change doubters’ minds by returning to his 2022 form. And he can gain a few fans by powering Indianapolis to the playoffs. 2025 should be an interesting season.