The Indianapolis Colts are heading into the new NFL season with a major shake-up under center, and the choice has already stirred controversy.
Head coach Shane Steichen announced on Tuesday that Daniel Jones, the former New York Giants quarterback, will be the starter—leaving Anthony Richardson, the team’s once highly-touted first-round pick, on the sidelines.
Agent Slams Colts Over Lack of Trust
Richardson’s camp is not taking the news lightly.
His agent, Deiric Jackson of Legacy Sports Advisors, issued a sharp statement blasting the Colts’ decision and questioning the relationship between player and franchise.
Speaking to ESPN, Jackson said: “Trust is a big factor and that is, at best, questionable right now.
Anthony came back, made the improvements he needed to, and by all accounts had a great camp.”
Colts Put Faith in Daniel Jones
Despite Richardson’s progress, Steichen and his coaching staff decided to pivot toward Jones, who joined the Colts on a one-year, $14 million deal this offseason.
“He’s our starting quarterback for the season,” Steichen confirmed, emphasizing his confidence in the 28-year-old veteran’s ability to lead the team.
A Second Chance for Jones
For Jones, this represents a chance to revive his career.
Drafted sixth overall by the Giants in 2019, his journey has been turbulent—highlighted by flashes of promise, an ACL injury in 2023, and eventually losing his starting job in New York after a 2-8 start last year.
Jones asked for his release, briefly joined the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, and now finds himself with another opportunity to start in Indianapolis.
“As a competitor, you want to be on the field. I’m excited for the opportunity,” he said Tuesday.
Richardson Stays Composed Despite Setback
Richardson, meanwhile, is taking the high road. “They feel like he’s a better fit for the team and the outcome of us winning.
You have to respect it and keep working,” the 23-year-old quarterback said. “It doesn’t undermine any of the work I’ve put in.
I’m proud of the improvement I’ve made.” Still, his limited availability due to repeated injuries has clearly been a factor in the team’s decision-making.
A Career Still Waiting to Take Off
Richardson’s numbers tell part of the story. Since being drafted fourth overall in 2023, he has appeared in only 15 games, throwing for 2,391 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions while battling injuries to his shoulder, foot, oblique, back, and finger—as well as a concussion.
His accuracy and ball security have also been concerns, with a 50.6% completion rate and 12 fumbles.
Season Opener on the Horizon
The Colts will test their new quarterback plan soon enough when they open the 2025 NFL season at home against the Miami Dolphins on September 7.
For Jones, it’s a chance at redemption; for Richardson, it’s another hurdle in a career already defined by both promise and setbacks.
