Colts’ Quarterback Conundrum: A Battle for the Starting Spot
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for an intriguing offseason, with a significant focus on the quarterback position. General Manager Chris Ballard has made it clear that the team intends to have an “open” competition at quarterback. This battle will feature Anthony Richardson and a yet-to-be-determined player they plan to acquire in the coming months. Ballard’s comments came during a press conference at the NFL scouting combine, where he outlined the team’s strategy for the upcoming season.
Ballard had previously mentioned the team’s intention to bring in a quarterback to challenge Richardson and provide a safety net. This move comes after Richardson, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, missed 17 of a possible 34 career games due to four separate injuries. However, Ballard’s recent statements suggest a more aggressive approach to fostering competition.
“It’s got to be the right guy to create real competition,” Ballard emphasized. “We want to create real competition. I think it’s good for the team. I think it’s good for Anthony. We drafted Anthony high knowing it was going to take some time and we knew there’s going to be some hiccups along the way. I know we all want a finished product right now. I do. You do. Fans do. We all do. But I think as he continues to progress in his young career, us adding competition, I think, will help up everybody’s game.”
Richardson’s journey with the Colts has been a rollercoaster. He earned the starting job after just one preseason game as a rookie in 2023, surpassing veteran Gardner Minshew. Unfortunately, his season was cut short by a season-ending injury in Week 5. Last season, Richardson started as the unquestioned starter but faced a brief benching for two games in favor of veteran Joe Flacco. The Colts cited the need for Richardson to improve his game-preparation skills.
Statistically, Richardson struggled in 2024, completing a league-low 47.7% of pass attempts and throwing 12 interceptions. However, he showcased his rushing prowess, averaging 5.8 yards per attempt and scoring six rushing touchdowns. Despite these challenges, the Colts remain hopeful that Richardson can put it all together.
“We’ve had good conversations,” Ballard said. “Anthony’s accepted all of it. He understands there needs to be some growth and there’s work. That’s the one thing I’m really proud of him about. There’s no deferring or defensiveness. It’s, ‘I know I’ve got to go to work.’ I think it’s understanding the enormity of who the quarterback is and what the value of that position is. [He was] — I don’t want to say naïve when he first came into the league — but there was a little naïvety.”
Ballard remains optimistic about Richardson’s future, even as he explores alternative options. “He is really competitive and I think for a six-game stretch there, we saw some really special stuff out of him,” Ballard noted. “Now we’ve just got to get consistent. He’s a really good dude. He cares and I think he’ll put the work in.”
The Colts are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a quarterback. Ballard stated that the team is open to all possibilities, including free agency, trades, and the draft. “Everything will be on the table,” he said.
However, the offseason’s quarterback market presents its own challenges. It’s not considered particularly deep, with limited options in both the draft and free agency. Sam Darnold is expected to be the top available quarterback, with other potential free agent options including Justin Fields, Jameis Winston, and Mac Jones.
- Sam Darnold
- Justin Fields
- Jameis Winston
- Mac Jones
Given the team’s investment in Richardson and his status as the returning starter, he might find himself in a strong position if he can demonstrate progress. “We’re just looking for consistency,” said coach Shane Steichen.
As the Colts navigate this pivotal offseason, the quarterback competition promises to be a storyline worth watching. With Ballard’s commitment to creating a competitive environment, the team hopes to elevate its performance and set the stage for a successful season.
Originally Written by: Stephen Holder
