Colts' June 5 OTA recap: Richardson & Jones QB duel intensifies for 2024 season. Steichen seeks consistency. Who will start? Latest Indy updates.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
And just like that, another phase of the offseason is in the books! The Indianapolis Colts wrapped up their final day of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) today, June 5th, at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center. While the sun might be setting on this OTA session, the heat is definitely turning up, especially in the quarterback room where Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones continue their battle for the starting gig.
Coach Steichen has maintained that the most consistent quarterback will earn the starting job.
All eyes remain fixed on the quarterback competition. As Coach Shane Steichen promised, Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones continued to split first-team reps throughout this second OTA session (June 3-5). Richardson, now in his pivotal third year, knows the pressure is on. After two seasons marred by injuries, proving he can stay on the field and lead this offense effectively is paramount. Jones, the experienced veteran, offers a steady hand, and the coaching staff is clearly looking for who can command the offense with the most consistency. This battle is far from over and will undoubtedly be the main event heading into next week's mandatory minicamp.
Speaking of players to watch, the development of first-round pick Tyler Warren continues to be a major storyline. The rookie tight end out of Penn State, selected 14th overall, was active again today, and the Colts are clearly grooming him to be a significant offensive weapon. The 'next great Colts tight end' label is a heavy one, but Warren's progress in these early sessions is encouraging. On a less positive note, rookie linebacker Jaylon Carlies' status for Week 1 against Miami remains up in the air. The team confirmed today he's still rehabbing a shoulder injury. While he's working hard, his availability for minicamp and beyond will be a key concern as the team looks to bolster its defensive depth.
GM Chris Ballard's uncharacteristically aggressive free agency moves are also under the microscope, and so far, so good. New safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Charvarius Ward were once again heavily involved as they continue to integrate into Gus Bradley's defensive scheme. Their veteran presence and playmaking ability are crucial as the Colts face immense pressure to make a playoff push in 2025. Seeing these key acquisitions mesh with the existing talent during OTAs is a positive sign for a defense looking to take a big step forward.
With OTAs now complete, the focus shifts to mandatory minicamp, scheduled for June 10-12. The intensity will ramp up, and we'll get an even clearer picture of where this team stands. The quarterback battle will rage on, rookie development will continue, and the new pieces will further solidify their roles. Stay tuned, Colts Nation, the journey to the 2025 season is just getting started!