The Indianapolis Colts have entered the 2025 NFL season with one of the most intriguing quarterback battles in recent memory. Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones have been neck-and-neck throughout training camp, and despite weeks of intense competition, the team has yet to name a starter. Head coach Shane Steichen has emphasized that every rep, walkthrough, and meeting matters in this evaluation process, but the decision remains elusive.

The Case for Anthony Richardson

Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown significant improvement in areas where he previously struggled. His short and intermediate accuracy has improved, and his once-sloppy footwork has become more refined. These developments have led to better overall efficiency, a welcome change after he finished last season with a league-low 47.7% completion rate. Richardson has also demonstrated better decision-making, avoiding alarming interceptions that plagued him in 2024.

However, Richardson’s camp performance has been somewhat boom-or-bust. While he’s showcased his big arm—leading the NFL in air yards per attempt last season—he’s also had inexplicable misses on easy throws. His accuracy remains a concern, and a preseason injury to his throwing hand has added another layer of complexity to his case for QB1.

The Case for Daniel Jones

On the other hand, Daniel Jones, a veteran with a career completion rate of 64.1%, has been more consistent in camp. His command of the Colts’ offense, despite joining the team in free agency just months ago, has been impressive. Jones’s experience has allowed him to navigate the scheme effectively, though his tendency to play conservatively has limited his downfield success.

Jones’s yards per attempt last season (6.1) were well below the league average (7.3), and while he completed more passes than Richardson, his total passing yards were only marginally higher. This raises questions about his ability to elevate the Colts’ offense in a meaningful way.

The Big Question

Both quarterbacks bring different strengths to the table, but the unanswered question is whether their styles will translate to vastly different results on the field. Interestingly, their QBR rankings from last season (25th for Jones, 29th for Richardson) suggest that the overall outcomes of their performances might not differ significantly.

What’s Next?

As the Colts head into the preseason, the competition remains wide open. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter has acknowledged that the battle has raised the level of both players, but it’s clear that neither has fully separated themselves. The decision will likely come down to which quarterback can consistently execute the game plan and lead the team to victories.

Final Thoughts

The Colts’ QB1 battle is a testament to the depth and talent at the position, but it also underscores the challenges of making such a critical decision. Whether it’s Richardson’s raw potential or Jones’s veteran poise, the Colts are banking on this competition to bring out the best in both players—and ultimately, the team.