The Colts are preparing to stick with their Anthony Richardson plan for 2025, but after this season’s struggles, the team may need stronger backup options.
Richardson, the 2023 No. 4 overall pick, became one of only seven quarterbacks this century to complete less than 50% of his passes with a minimum of 200 attempts.
His 47.7% completion rate was the lowest for an NFL starter since Tim Tebow in 2011—a concerning figure at this level. Despite these struggles, the Colts are sticking with GM Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen, which gives Richardson additional time to develop.
While Richardson has displayed elite athleticism, questions about his work ethic and regression as a passer have surfaced. The talented but raw quarterback earned Jim Irsay’s backing to start in Week 1 of 2023, but Ballard later expressed regret, suggesting Richardson should not have played as a rookie.
His 2023 season ended prematurely due to a shoulder injury, one of several physical setbacks he has faced. The Colts ultimately benched him midway through the season, heightening the pressure for his performance in 2025.
This week, Steichen acknowledged the possibility of adding competition for Richardson (via Joel Erickson of the Indianapolis Star), signaling he would discuss such a move with Ballard. Considering Richardson’s underwhelming form and the mounting pressure on the HC-GM duo, it would not be surprising if the Colts pursue a high-caliber backup in free agency.
If Richardson fails to make significant strides in 2025, it could spell trouble for Ballard and Steichen, as their jobs may hinge on the young quarterback’s success.
After years of cycling through veteran replacements for Andrew Luck—including Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz, and Matt Ryan—the Colts bet on Richardson as a long-term solution. So far, he has struggled far more as a passer than any of those options, despite flashes of big-play potential.
Potential veteran additions include familiar names like Jacoby Brissett, Jimmy Garoppolo, Andy Dalton, and Case Keenum. The Colts could also explore trade candidates like Justin Fields, though his cost may be prohibitive. Other possibilities include Mac Jones or even Daniel Jones as bridge options, while Kirk Cousins—depending on market conditions—might also be in play as a budget-friendly addition. Meanwhile, Gardner Minshew, who provided stability in 2023 before joining the Raiders, could return if released.
With the stakes rising for 2025, adding competition at quarterback seems critical for the Colts, ensuring Richardson has both support and accountability in his pivotal second full season.
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