The Indianapolis Colts have made their quarterback decision, and frankly, it's not the one many expected.
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According to NFL Media, Daniel Jones has been named the Week 1 starter over Anthony Richardson. The Colts open the season Sept. 7 against the Miami Dolphins.
It's a surprising move given that Richardson was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft and was supposed to be the long-term answer in Indianapolis. Instead, Jones — the former New York Giants quarterback — has won the job.
Jones, the No. 6 pick in 2019, left New York earlier this year after requesting his release. He had been benched for business reasons tied to his 2025 injury guarantee. He briefly joined Minnesota's practice squad before choosing Indianapolis on a one-year, $14 million deal. Head coach Shane Steichen said that consistency was the deciding factor.
"Daniel did a great job," Steichen told reporters. "He's our starting quarterback for the season. I don't want to have a quick leash on that. I feel confident in his abilities."
Richardson, meanwhile, will head to the bench after two uneven seasons. Steichen said the young quarterback "made strides" but still has development ahead. For now, he will wait as the backup, with the reminder that he is "one play away" from getting back on the field.
Jones becomes the sixth different Week 1 starter for the Colts since Andrew Luck's sudden retirement in August 2019. The carousel has included Jacoby Brissett, Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan and Richardson. Now, it is Jones' turn.
For the Colts, the hope is that the veteran's steady hand can stabilize an NFL franchise still searching for answers at the most important position in the game.
Indianapolis opens the season September 7 at home against the Miami Dolphins.
