Colts Owner Sends Inspiring Message to Anthony Richardson Before QB Battle

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Jul 22, 2025 10:41 AM ET

The Indianapolis Colts have been all over the headlines this offseason for their highly anticipated quarterback competition. The battle will feature incumbent starter Anthony Richardson and former New York Giants veteran Daniel Jones and it is set to begin tomorrow.

There was a level of uncertainty surrounding Richardson and his viability for the competition following another serious injury this summer. However, the reports are that the former No. 4 overall pick is completely healthy and ready to fight for his starting spot.

Richardson has been put through the wringer so far in his career, but new owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon recently gave him a vote of confidence before he embarks on this career-defining journey.

Before Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes redefined the quarterback position by winning MVP in his first year starting, players were typically given much more grace. It was a common rule of thumb that a passer couldn’t be truly judged until his third season.

This has changed drastically in recent years, especially with more rookie excellence in Washington Commanders star Jayden Daniels and Houston Texans signal caller C.J. Stroud.

Although Richardson was a known project and played in just four games his rookie year, the organization and fanbase already grew impatient in year two, which caused the quarterback competition.

Irsay-Gordon believes that there is still time for the Florida product to reach his potential, saying, “Where he is in his career and in his deal as a rookie, we still have time.”

Entering his third season, Richardson remains one of the youngest players in the NFL, so his future is far from decided. However, it is tough to come back from being benched twice by the same team, so losing this competition could very well spell the end of his Colts career.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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