The Colts kicked off their quarterback competition on Wednesday, featuring Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson. I think it’s quite a gripping scenario as training camp gets underway.
Richardson, who was the team’s first-round pick in 2023 and is currently managing shoulder injuries, mentioned that he’s been working with the starters during the earlier team drills, completing 4 out of 11 passes, as reported.
It’s a team effort, though. The wide receivers—Ashton Dulin, Michael Pittman Jr., and even running back Jonathan Taylor—also need to contribute.
To secure the starting position, Richardson will have to outperform Jones. In the opening drills, Jones was impressive, making 6 out of 7 passes.
Jones, released by the Giants last November after a tumultuous five-and-a-half seasons, even faced an interception on Wednesday. He said, “I still have a lot to do, but I need to keep working.”
“Learning the system, getting to know the guys, and figuring out how to communicate with the coaches are key,” Jones added, reflecting on the busy days ahead.
Both quarterbacks, particularly eager to put their disappointing 2024 seasons behind them, find themselves at a crucial juncture now.
Jones briefly joined the Vikings after his release from the Giants but later signed a one-year, $14 million deal with the Colts.
Last season, the Colts finished with an 8-9 record, and Richardson started 11 games. His sophomore season brought its own challenges; he unexpectedly took himself out of a game during an eight-game losing stretch, stating he “needed a break.” Following that, the Colts benched him but later reinstated him as the starter.
Now entering his third year in the league, Richardson is determined to improve upon his performance. “I’m working hard to be the best I can be for my team,” he expressed.
The Colts are set to host the Dolphins for their season opener on September 7.
