A Veteran Presence in Indy
Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen has officially solidified the team's depth chart for the 2026 season, naming veteran Daniel Jones the starting quarterback for the Week 1 opener. Steichen, who previously praised Jones for his veteran presence and communication skills, is prioritizing stability as the franchise looks to break a four-season playoff drought. Jones, who joined the Colts on a $14 million deal in 2025 before signing a two-year extension, has successfully recovered from a torn Achilles suffered last season to reclaim his spot atop the roster.
The Richardson Trade Request
The decision leaves Anthony Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, in a precarious position. Despite a productive 2026 preseason where he completed 63.6% of his passes for 249 yards and rushed for a touchdown, Richardson remains the designated backup. This follows a tumultuous offseason in which the Colts declined Richardson's fifth-year option and granted him permission to seek a trade in February. While Richardson reported to voluntary workouts and described the situation as a blessing in disguise, his official trade request remains a significant cloud over the locker room.
Locker Room Crossroads
Steichen’s choice was not without competition. Richardson had to beat out 2025 draft pick Riley Leonard just to secure the QB2 role. During the preseason, Richardson demonstrated the rare athletic talent that once made him a top-five selection, including a rushing touchdown and 68 yards on the ground. However, the coaching staff has opted for the consistency of Jones, with Steichen stating he does not want a quick leash on the veteran starter. This move signals a clear shift in philosophy for General Manager Chris Ballard, who is entering the final year of his own contract.
Looking Ahead to the Deadline
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the league-wide perspective on Richardson is shifting. With only $1.145 million in base salary remaining for 2026, Richardson represents a low-cost, high-upside flyer for quarterback-needy teams. While Ballard has expressed a desire to keep Richardson in the room, the player's desire for a fresh start after starting only 15 games across his first three seasons is well-documented. Whether the Colts find a suitable trade partner or keep the disgruntled former first-rounder as insurance for Jones remains the most pressing question in Indianapolis.
