Colts name Anthony Richardson starter for the preseason opener vs. Ravens, but a QB battle with Daniel Jones rages on after a fiery August 2025 practice.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Indianapolis Colts finally have a plan for their preseason opener, but the starting quarterback job for the regular season remains firmly up for grabs. Head Coach Shane Steichen announced Tuesday that Anthony Richardson Sr. will get the start against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, a significant nod for the former first-round pick. However, a stellar practice performance from both Richardson and veteran Daniel Jones proved this competition is a true heavyweight bout.
AD Mitchell didn't just win his reps against the Ravens; he let them know about it, consistently beating defenders and jawing with rookie corner Nate Wiggins after another dominant catch.
Coach Steichen laid out the roadmap for the preseason's most-watched position battle. Richardson is slated to play about a quarter and a half in Thursday's opener, giving him the first chance to command the offense in a game setting. Daniel Jones, the veteran brought in on a one-year, $14 million deal, will get some time in the second half and is scheduled to start the second preseason contest. Steichen was clear that no final decision has been made, emphasizing that both QBs have performed well. This structured approach ensures each quarterback gets a fair shot with the first-team offense, turning the next two weeks into a critical audition.
If Tuesday's joint practice is any indication, the Colts' coaching staff has a difficult decision ahead. Richardson was sharp, completing 10 of his 13 passes, including a short touchdown and connections with seven different receivers. Not to be outdone, Jones was surgical, going 14-of-17 and spreading the ball around to eight different targets. The practice wasn't without its warts, as the offense suffered a string of false starts early on, earning a stern talking-to from Steichen. But both quarterbacks quickly settled in, showcasing the poise and accuracy that has this competition boiling.
While the quarterbacks dueled, rookie receiver AD Mitchell stole the spotlight. The second-round pick was simply uncoverable, repeatedly beating Ravens defenders and showing off the swagger that has fans buzzing. He hauled in multiple passes from both QBs and made his presence known by taunting Ravens' first-round corner Nate Wiggins. Alongside Mitchell, Jonathan Taylor looked explosive with several strong runs and a deep reception in one-on-ones, while Alec Pierce, fresh off a career year, expressed his optimism for the dynamic offense in a radio interview. The Colts' offensive weaponry looks potent.
The intensity of the quarterback battle has inevitably sparked speculation outside the facility, with some national outlets floating the idea of an Anthony Richardson trade. While there's no substance to the rumors, it highlights the high stakes of the competition. Back in Indianapolis, the focus is on the field and the fan experience. The team announced a new slate of Indiana-centric food and beverage options for Lucas Oil Stadium, ensuring fans will be well-fed as they watch this drama unfold throughout the 2025 season.
All eyes now turn to Thursday night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Richardson has the first crack at making a definitive statement. Can he build on his strong practice performance and seize control of the starting job, or will his play simply set the stage for Daniel Jones to answer in Week 2? The audition is officially underway, and every snap counts.
