Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones dueled at the Colts' Aug 1 scrimmage. See who shined with big TD passes in the tight race for the starting QB spot.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The biggest question mark for the Indianapolis Colts was put on full display Friday night, and the answer is no clearer. Under the lights at Grand Park, the quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones exploded into life during a spirited team scrimmage. Both quarterbacks made compelling cases for the starting job, trading big plays and leaving fans buzzing with anticipation.
ESPN's Mike Clay identified quarterback as the roster's biggest weakness, citing Richardson's 48% completion rate last season and Jones' struggles as a passer.
The main event of the evening was the extended scrimmage, and neither quarterback disappointed. Anthony Richardson, looking to silence critics of his passing accuracy, flashed the elite athleticism that makes him so tantalizing. He broke off several impressive runs and delivered the play of the night: a perfectly thrown 40-yard touchdown bomb to Michael Pittman Jr. Not to be outdone, veteran Daniel Jones showcased his command and poise, leading a masterful two-minute drill that culminated in a game-winning touchdown pass to Alec Pierce. Each QB demonstrated their unique strengths, making the coaching staff's decision even more difficult.
While the quarterbacks stole the show, the front office was busy fine-tuning the roster. New cornerbacks Tre Herndon and Duke Shelley were on the field after being signed on Thursday, moves made necessary by David Long Jr. landing on injured reserve. On the defensive side, two key leaders were absent from the scrimmage. Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was given a scheduled rest day, a common practice for established veterans. More concerning is the continued absence of linebacker Zaire Franklin. The NFL's reigning tackle leader is still recovering from offseason ankle surgery, though GM Chris Ballard remains optimistic he'll be ready soon, noting the team's confidence by not placing him on the PUP list.
Before the scrimmage fireworks, the narrative surrounding the Colts' signal-callers was one of concern, highlighted by ESPN analyst Mike Clay labeling the position as the team's 'biggest weakness.' The critique focused on Richardson's accuracy issues from last season and Jones' inconsistent history. Friday's performance was a direct rebuttal from both players. Richardson showed his arm can be a weapon, not just his legs, while Jones proved he can be a steady hand under pressure. The duel doesn't erase the questions, but it injects a heavy dose of optimism and intrigue into a competition that will define the Colts' 2025 season.
The lights may have dimmed at Grand Park, but the spotlight on the quarterback competition has only grown brighter. Friday's scrimmage didn't anoint a starter; it simply raised the stakes. As the team gears up for its first preseason action, every rep, every throw, and every decision from Richardson and Jones will be scrutinized. The battle for QB1 is far from over, and it's the story every Colts fan will be watching.
