The Colts named Anthony Richardson the preseason opener starter vs. the Ravens, but the QB battle with Daniel Jones is just beginning. Who will win the Week 1 job?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The moment Colts fans have been waiting for is here. Head Coach Shane Steichen announced Wednesday that Anthony Richardson Sr. will be under center to start the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. But don't crown a winner just yet. This is merely round one of a meticulously planned quarterback duel, with Daniel Jones waiting in the wings and the starting job for Week 1 hanging in the balance.
Anthony Richardson will start and play about a quarter and a half against the Ravens. In the second preseason game, Daniel Jones will start and play a quarter and a half.
Coach Shane Steichen laid out the roadmap for the most critical position battle in Indianapolis. Richardson gets the start Thursday against Baltimore, slated to play roughly 1.5 quarters before Daniel Jones takes over for the remainder of the first half. The roles will then reverse for the second preseason game against the Packers, with Jones getting the start. Steichen has made it clear: this is an open competition. For Richardson, who has completed just 50.6% of his passes and missed 17 games in two seasons, this is a golden opportunity to prove he can be the consistent, durable leader the Colts drafted him to be. For Jones, on a one-year, $14 million 'prove-it' deal, it's a chance to resurrect his career and show he's the more reliable option.
Whoever wins the quarterback job will need reliable weapons, and they got a major boost this week. Star wideout Michael Pittman Jr. made his return to practice on Tuesday after being sidelined with a groin injury. His presence is a welcome sight, as he's expected to be the primary target and a crucial safety blanket for the offense. Getting him back on the field and in rhythm with both quarterbacks ahead of the preseason opener is a significant step forward for the entire offensive unit.
The team also gave fans a sneak peek at how the roster is shaping up with the release of the first unofficial depth chart. One of the more interesting tidbits was the placement of rookie DJ Giddens as the No. 3 running back. This early nod suggests the team is confident in the young back's ability to contribute behind Jonathan Taylor and carve out a role in the offense. On a lighter note for the fans, the team also announced a one-day flash sale for the annual Colts 5K, dropping the registration price to $35 for Wednesday only, ahead of the September 6 event.
All eyes will be on Lucas Oil Stadium tomorrow night. It's more than just a preseason game; it's the first live-fire test in a quarterback battle that will define the Colts' season. Richardson gets the first shot, but this race is far from over. How he performs in his quarter and a half could set the tone for the entire competition.
