Quick Read
- Daniel Jones named Colts’ starting quarterback for 2025 season.
- Jones beat out Anthony Richardson after a competitive preseason.
- Decision impacts key players like Michael Pittman Jr. and Tyler Warren.
- Coach Shane Steichen aims for playoff resurgence with Jones at QB.
The Indianapolis Colts officially announced on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, that Daniel Jones will be their starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. This decision concludes months of speculation and an intense preseason competition with Anthony Richardson, a former fourth-overall draft pick whose career has been marred by injuries and inconsistency. Head coach Shane Steichen’s decision signals a new direction for the Colts as they aim to end a four-year playoff drought.
Daniel Jones’ Journey: From Giants to Colts
Daniel Jones, the former sixth-overall pick by the New York Giants in the 2019 NFL Draft, had a turbulent career in New York. Initially seen as the successor to Eli Manning, Jones showed flashes of potential but struggled to meet the high expectations placed on him. After signing a four-year, $160 million contract in 2023, his performance faltered, leading to his eventual release in 2024. Jones then joined the Minnesota Vikings, where he spent the remainder of the season sharpening his skills under head coach Kevin O’Connell.
His time with the Vikings proved to be a turning point. While he didn’t see much playing time, the experience helped him refine his game. Signing a one-year, $13.15 million guaranteed contract with the Colts in 2025 gave Jones the opportunity he had been seeking—a chance to start fresh and prove himself as a reliable NFL quarterback.
Anthony Richardson: A Setback in Development
Anthony Richardson, drafted by the Colts in 2023, was initially seen as the team’s quarterback of the future. However, injuries and inconsistency have plagued his young career. Richardson’s preseason was cut short due to a dislocated finger, further hampering his ability to compete effectively for the starting role. Despite his athletic prowess and potential, Richardson’s inability to stay healthy has raised questions about his long-term viability as a starter.
Head coach Shane Steichen praised Richardson’s efforts but ultimately cited Jones’ experience and command of the offense as decisive factors in the decision. According to a report from ProFootballRumors, Steichen views Jones as the starter for the entire 2025 season, barring injuries or poor performance. This decision puts Richardson’s future with the team in jeopardy, as the Colts will need to decide on his fifth-year option after this season.
Impact on the Colts’ Offense
The decision to start Jones has significant implications for the Colts’ offense. Jones’ ability to work with wide receivers and tight ends is expected to elevate the performance of key players like Michael Pittman Jr. and rookie tight end Tyler Warren. According to Sporting News, Pittman, a talented wideout, struggled to make an impact under Richardson due to the latter’s low completion rate. With Jones at the helm, Pittman’s fantasy football value is expected to rise substantially.
Similarly, Tyler Warren, a highly touted rookie from Penn State, stands to benefit from Jones’ more accurate passing. Warren’s athleticism and catching ability could make him a significant weapon in the Colts’ offensive arsenal. Running back Jonathan Taylor is also expected to see improvements, as Jones’ style of play is less likely to take away scoring opportunities compared to Richardson’s run-heavy approach.
A Strategic Move for the Colts’ Future
This decision is not just about the immediate season; it’s a strategic move for the Colts’ long-term success. The team has been searching for stability at the quarterback position since Andrew Luck’s unexpected retirement in 2019. With Jones, the Colts hope to establish a consistent offensive leader who can guide the team back to playoff contention.
General Manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen are under pressure to deliver results. The Colts have not made a playoff appearance since 2020, and another disappointing season could lead to significant organizational changes. By choosing Jones, the team is betting on experience and reliability over potential, a calculated risk that could pay off if Jones delivers a strong performance.
While the decision to start Jones has garnered mixed reactions, it underscores the Colts’ commitment to turning the page on past struggles and focusing on immediate success. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Jones to see if he can lead the Colts to a much-needed resurgence.
With the Colts placing their trust in Daniel Jones, the 2025 season promises to be a pivotal year for both the quarterback and the franchise. The stakes are high, and the journey begins now.