Colts End Anthony Richardson Experiment, Name Daniel Jones Starting QB for 2025 Season
In a move that signals the end of a tumultuous era, the Indianapolis Colts have officially named Daniel Jones their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, effectively benching former No. 4 overall draft pick Anthony Richardson. While the organization maintains it still believes in Richardson’s potential, the decision has the unmistakable tone of finality on Richardson’s uncertain future in Indianapolis.
Head coach Shane Steichen announced the decision with confidence, stating Jones was chosen because of his consistency across multiple facets: operation at the line of scrimmage, ball placement, completion percentage, and protection of the football. Steichen emphasized, “I don’t want to have a quick leash on that,” underscoring the organization’s commitment to Jones as their starter for the entire season.
From High Hopes to Disappointment: The Richardson Experiment
The Colts selected Anthony Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL draft, captivated by his combination of elite athleticism and immense upside. However, Richardson’s performance over two seasons has revealed significant and persistent challenges. His 2024 completion percentage plummeted to 47.7%, the worst since Tim Tebow’s 2011 season, coupled with an 8-12 touchdown-to-interception ratio and a 61.6 passer rating — metrics that were the lowest since DeShone Kizer’s 2017 statistics.
Moreover, Richardson has battled injuries, participating in just 15 of a possible 34 games over two seasons. These struggles on the field and with health have diminished his standing within the Colts’ organization.
Coaching and Management’s Perspective
Despite public statements from Colts General Manager Chris Ballard and coaching staff pleading patience with the young quarterback’s development, actions have diverged sharply from rhetoric. Steichen and the Colts have termed their decision a choice for stability and the best chance to win on Sundays, expressing no trust in Richardson to lead the offense effectively at this stage.
Richardson will assume the backup role behind Jones, marking the second time the Colts have benched him in just three seasons, a rare and troubling pattern for an elite draft pick. While they suggest Richardson may start some games if Jones misses time, the overall sense is that the franchise is moving on.
Richardson’s Reaction and Future Outlook
Richardson himself has reacted publicly with professionalism, acknowledging the team’s decision and expressing respect for the organization’s choice. However, behind the scenes, both the quarterback and his agent have expressed dissatisfaction and indicated ongoing discussions about the future.
Speculation is growing that Richardson could request a trade, especially with the regular season looming and no immediate indications the Colts plan to reverse course. Analysts note potential landing spots for Richardson, including teams like the Los Angeles Rams and Baltimore Ravens, which could see value in acquiring the former top prospect should he find consistency elsewhere.
The Stakes for Indianapolis
The decision to bench Richardson in favor of Jones, who has a mixed track record and is not considered an ideal scheme fit, reflects the Colts’ priority on steadiness over potential. Coach Steichen and GM Ballard are placing considerable hope on Jones to elevate the team and produce wins in what they consider a pivotal 2025 season.
Failure to significantly improve the franchise’s fortunes with Jones could provoke major organizational shakeups. The Colts find themselves at a critical crossroads, grappling with a lost investment in Richardson and searching for a long-term solution at quarterback, a position central to future success.