The Colts open 2025 training camp with a shock: zero players on the PUP list. Anthony Richardson and Zaire Franklin are cleared, igniting a QB battle.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The gates at Grand Park swung open for Colts training camp today, and for the first time in what feels like an eternity, a wave of pure optimism followed the players in. In a stunning and welcome turn of events, General Manager Chris Ballard announced that the team will begin camp with zero players on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. That's right—everyone is cleared, everyone is practicing, and the 2025 season is officially kicking off on the healthiest note possible.
The most important stat of the day? Zero. That's the number of Colts players starting training camp on the PUP list.
It’s the news every fan dreams of hearing. Key contributors who ended last season with question marks are ready to roll from day one. Quarterback Anthony Richardson (shoulder), defensive captain Zaire Franklin (ankle), pass-rusher Samson Ebukam (Achilles), and even rookie linebacker Jaylon Carlies (shoulder) have all been fully cleared. GM Chris Ballard did caution that the team will be 'smart' and closely monitor Richardson's throwing volume to ensure he stays healthy, but the message is clear: the Colts are at full strength and ready to compete.
With health concerns momentarily in the rearview, all eyes pivot to the most compelling storyline of the summer: the quarterback battle. Anthony Richardson, the high-ceiling athletic marvel, is now clear to fully compete against veteran Daniel Jones. While Richardson’s health is paramount, his availability from the jump ignites a genuine competition that will define the team's offensive identity. Beyond the QBs, depth charts at tight end and wide receiver are also up for grabs, promising a competitive and revealing few weeks at Grand Park.
As the Colts celebrated their good health, a former defensive mainstay found a new home. Long-time safety Julian Blackmon officially signed with the New Orleans Saints, stepping in after Tyrann Mathieu's surprise retirement. Blackmon was a tough, productive player for five seasons in Indy, racking up 10 interceptions despite battling injuries. His departure, however, was expected after the Colts acquired Camryn Bynum this offseason. The move solidifies the team's transition in the secondary, officially ushering in the era of Bynum and Nick Cross as the starting safety tandem.
The optimism wasn't just in the front office; it was written all over the players' faces. The team's social media channels were buzzing with clips of stars like Michael Pittman Jr., Zaire Franklin, and a smiling Anthony Richardson arriving at camp. The energy was palpable, with a clear sense of unity and excitement for the work ahead. It's just Day 1, but the vibes are immaculate.
A perfect bill of health and a fired-up roster is the ideal way to start training camp, but now the real evaluation begins. Can Richardson's arm hold up to a full camp workload? Who will separate themselves in the key position battles? The foundation is set, the excuses are gone, and the journey to build a contender starts now.
