Colts Face 'Reality' Daniel Jones Starts at QB

Daniel Jones was signed on a lucrative one-year deal to bring competition to Anthony Richardson's doorstep for the next starting QB spot. But Jones' signing looks more like an insurance policy acquired by general manager Chris Ballard.

He and Shane Steichen can't afford to look bad, or they might be out of a job. Bringing in Jones speaks volumes about the clear narrative that time has run out for Richardson to develop.

In short, Jones has multiple advantages to take over and win the starting position. In fact, he had an opportunity to stay with the Minnesota Vikings to beat out J.J. McCarthy, but chose the Indianapolis Colts because he thought it was the clearest path to start.

Jeff Kerr at CBS Sports calls Jones starting over Richardson a 'reality.' Kerr begins by discussing Jones' offseason and what might come from the former New York Giants leader.

"Jones usually flashes in minicamp and training camp, so he certainly could stampede ahead of Richardson in the quarterback competition. While Jones has a questionable track record regarding injuries as well, he's more accurate than Richardson and gets a fresh start behind a significantly better offensive line than the one he had in New York."

Kerr concludes, saying: "Richardson needs to take command of the offense this summer, or he will be watching Jones start Week 1. His shoulder injury may give Jones the job, especially if Jones impresses with the first team while Richardson is on the mend."

Richardson missed most of minicamp and OTAs with a sore throwing shoulder, but will be ready for training camp. However, this is still concerning because it's in the same shoulder where he sustained an AC joint sprain in 2023. This forced his rookie year to be just four games.

To call Jones starting over Richardson a potential 'reality' isn't wrong, as the aforementioned shoulder soreness didn't help the former fourth-overall pick's chances. Richardson is still raw and has barely played college or professional football-so missing any offseason programs isn't good at all.