Colts Name Daniel Jones Starting QB: A Turning Point in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Colts have officially named Daniel Jones their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, a move that signals both a fresh start for the franchise and the end—at least for now—of the Anthony Richardson experiment. Head coach Shane Steichen made the announcement this week, confirming that Jones will lead the team into Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins.
The Rise and Fall of Anthony Richardson
When the Colts drafted Anthony Richardson with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the vision was clear: build around his rare combination of size, speed, and arm strength. He was billed as the future of the franchise—a potential superstar in the making. But promise doesn’t always translate to production.
What Went Wrong
Injuries: Richardson has been plagued by a long list of setbacks—shoulder, oblique, back, finger, concussion—you name it. Over two seasons, he managed only 15 starts.
Accuracy Issues: His completion rate never climbed much above 50%, and his career numbers (2,391 passing yards, 11 TDs, 13 INTs) paint a picture of inconsistency.
Coach’s Concerns: Steichen emphasized the importance of decision-making, protection, and completion percentage—all areas where Richardson struggled to deliver consistently.
Even Richardson’s camp expressed frustration with the decision. His agent openly questioned the Colts’ trust in him, though Richardson himself handled the announcement with professionalism, stating he would “live with” the decision and keep working.
For fans, the disappointment is real. What was supposed to be the start of a new era has instead turned into another chapter in Indy’s ongoing quarterback carousel.
Why Daniel Jones Makes Sense for the Colts
At first glance, Daniel Jones may not look like the savior Indy fans were hoping for. His tenure with the New York Giants was a mixed bag, defined by flashes of brilliance but overshadowed by inconsistency and injuries. Yet in Indianapolis, Jones has a chance to thrive—and here’s why.
Experience and Steadiness
Jones has been in the league for six seasons, tallying 14,582 passing yards, 70 touchdowns, and 47 interceptions, along with 2,179 rushing yards and 15 rushing scores. That veteran presence is exactly what Steichen wants in an offense desperate for stability.
Trust From the Coaching Staff
Steichen made it clear: Jones won the job because he earned the staff’s trust. He’s proven reliable in huddle communication, scheme execution, and pre-snap management—areas where Richardson’s inexperience often showed.
Playing With Purpose
Signed to a one-year, $14 million “prove-it” deal, Jones has plenty of incentive to show he can still be a starting QB in this league. Unlike Richardson, who was expected to develop over years, Jones is playing for his career right now.
No Quick Leash
Perhaps most importantly, Steichen promised that Jones won’t be yanked at the first sign of struggle. That commitment should give Jones the freedom to settle into the role and build chemistry with his offense.
What This Means for Indy
Short-Term Outlook
The Colts open the season at home against the Dolphins on September 7. By handing the keys to Jones, the franchise is prioritizing short-term consistency over long-term development.
Richardson’s Future
Richardson remains on the roster, but his future is cloudy. Will he sit, learn, and reemerge stronger—or does this mark the beginning of the end of his time in Indy? With his agent already voicing discontent, the possibility of a trade down the line can’t be ruled out.
Fan Reaction
Not surprisingly, fans are split. Some applaud the decision to stabilize the offense, while others—like former QB Robert Griffin III—accuse the Colts of “tanking for Arch Manning” in the 2026 draft. Whether that’s true or not, one thing is certain: Jones’ play will decide how this story unfolds.
Final Thoughts
For the Colts, this move is about trust, leadership, and consistency. Daniel Jones isn’t a flashy choice, but he may be the right one for an offense that needs direction. If he thrives, Indy could compete right away. If he falters, the franchise risks yet another reset at quarterback.
Either way, the Colts’ decision marks a dramatic shift: from betting on raw potential to banking on proven (if imperfect) experience. For Anthony Richardson, it’s a sobering reality check. For Daniel Jones, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.