The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for a competitive quarterback battle ahead of the 2025 NFL season. General manager Chris Ballard confirmed that Anthony Richardson, the team’s 2023 first-round pick, will face significant competition for the starting job. Richardson will need to prove himself against a quarterback the Colts intend to acquire this offseason, whether through free agency, a trade, or the draft. Ballard believes this competition is essential for both the team’s and Richardson’s growth.
Colts Explore All Options to Bring in Competition for Richardson’s Quarterback Role
To create a competitive environment for the starting role, Ballard is exploring all options in acquiring a new quarterback. He highlighted that the team is seeking a player capable of truly challenging Richardson and fostering strong competition. As of now, the only other quarterback under contract for 2025 is Jason Bean, who spent the majority of last season on the practice squad. Ballard aims to bring in a player who can push Richardson and contribute to the overall improvement of the team’s performance.
Anthony Richardson (NFL)Head coach Shane Steichen also weighed in on the idea of competition, stressing that it benefits everyone involved. Steichen acknowledged that the Colts are looking for more consistency from Richardson as he continues to develop. He noted that the NFL is always a pressure-filled environment, where players must show up and perform at their best each week. For Richardson, this means stepping up in key situations and demonstrating his growth as a young quarterback.
Richardson’s Struggles in 2024 and the Colts’ Commitment to His Long-Term Development
Anthony Richardson’s second season in the NFL has been less than ideal, with a notably low completion rate of 47.7%, the worst among starting quarterbacks in 2024. He also missed significant time due to a hip injury and was temporarily benched in favor of veteran Joe Flacco. Despite these challenges, there remains hope within the organization that Richardson can turn things around. Ballard believes that bringing in competition for the position will help push Richardson to improve and reach his potential.
While Ballard recognized the growing pains that come with developing a young quarterback like Richardson, he also remained patient. The Colts’ decision to draft Richardson high in the 2023 draft was made with the understanding that it would take time for him to mature into a starting-caliber QB.
Ballard is confident that the introduction of competition will help accelerate Richardson’s development and ultimately benefit both the player and the team in the long run. The Colts are committed to improving their quarterback situation and expect positive results in the near future.
