Daniel Jones Named Colts’ 2025 Starting QB Over Anthony Richardson: Season-Long Decision

Daniel Jones Named Colts’ 2025 Starting QB Over Anthony Richardson

August 19, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN. The Indianapolis Colts officially selected Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, decisively besting 2023 first-round pick Anthony Richardson in a closely watched training camp competition.

Head coach Shane Steichen affirmed the decision was season-long. “He’s the starting quarterback for the season,” Steichen declared, emphasizing the club’s commitment with “I don’t want to have a quick leash on that”  .

Jones joins the Colts on a one-year, $14 million contract signed in March—designed to provide competition and stability under center  . With six seasons of NFL experience—including 69 starts, over 14,500 passing yards, 70 TDs, and 47 INTs—Jones brings a veteran presence that the coaching staff values for consistency, operations, and decision-making  .

The preseason duel between Jones and Richardson was tightly contested, with neither quarterback gaining clear advantage in practices and preseason games. However, Jones’ steadier performance under center—marked by clean gameplay and precise execution—ultimately won Steichen’s confidence  .

Richardson’s challenges compounded his uphill battle. He suffered a dislocated pinky during a preseason game—an injury that limited his opportunities to build momentum in the competition  .

Despite losing the starting role, Richardson still has potential and may see playing time this season. However, this decision casts uncertainty over his long-term trajectory with the franchise as he enters his third year  .

From a broader lens, Jones becomes Indianapolis’ eighth different opening-day starting quarterback in the last nine seasons—a stark reminder of the team’s ongoing instability at the position since Andrew Luck’s retirement  .

Looking Ahead

• The Colts begin their season at home against the Miami Dolphins on September 7  .

• From a fantasy football standpoint, Jones’ clear starter status is likely to elevate his draft stock, with many projecting his ADP (average draft position) among quarterbacks to climb from 37th into the mid-20s range  .

• The organization is banking on Jones to provide operational reliability and composure as they seek to turn the page on prior quarterback turnover and underperformance.