Colts near decision on quarterback showdown as Richardson shows progress in preseason loss to Packers
INDIANAPOLIS — Colts coach Shane Steichen signaled that a decision in the high-profile quarterback battle between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones is coming soon, following Saturday’s preseason defeat to the Green Bay Packers. After three-plus weeks of camp, Steichen said he’s close to finalizing his choice and will do what’s best for the team.
Jones started for Indianapolis and played efficiently after a slow opening drive. Richardson, meanwhile, saw his first extended action of the preseason after a dislocated pinkie on his throwing hand kept him to seven snaps in last week’s opener against Baltimore. He responded with a promising opening series, completing five of his first six passes for 64 yards, before finishing 6-for-11 for 73 yards on the night. A 38-yard completion to Anthony Gould was negated by a pre-snap offside, underscoring some of the inconsistency that has surrounded Richardson, though he showed improvement in the quick passing game.
Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in 2023, has faced heavy scrutiny in Indianapolis after a brief two-game benching last season and two injuries that sidelined him for four games. To counter concerns about durability and consistency, the Colts signed Jones to a one-year, $14 million contract in March. Jones finished the night 7-for-11 for 101 yards, continuing to operate with veteran steadiness.
Steichen has stressed that beyond on-field numbers, factors like operation, in-huddle communication, checks, and overall consistency will influence the decision. He pointed to the off-season battle as a deliberate, two-primed competition, saying both players arrived as first-round picks and deserved an open competition for the job. He acknowledged that the decision will aim to maximize the team’s chances, even as he weighs the strengths each quarterback could bring to the offense.
Jones reflected on his approach, emphasizing the need to make solid decisions and continue improving, a mindset he has carried into camp and the preseason. He noted that his preparation and decision-making will continue to be central as the competition unfolds.
Richardson has repeatedly discussed his commitment to routine plays and steadier decision-making, calling those elements critical to staying on the field and moving the ball. He has also talked about embracing the quick-pass emphasis as a path to more consistent efficiency.
With two first-round picks at stake and a decision that could shape the Colts’ path for this season, both quarterbacks enter the stretch run of the preseason with something to prove. Steichen’s comments suggest the choice will hinge not just on a single game but on a broader assessment of leadership, language, and reliability in the offense.
Summary: Indianapolis is edging toward a definitive call in its quarterback competition, with Richardson showing growth in the quick game and Jones bringing veteran steadiness. The decision looms large as the Colts prepare for the regular season, and the team appears poised to choose the path that they believe best positions them for success. A hopeful note is that the competition itself is driving improvement and accountability within a young offense.