Colts name Jones starter for 2025 season, Richardson remains backup

The Indianapolis Colts have named Daniel Jones their starting quarterback for the 2025 season while keeping 23 year old Anthony Richardson on the roster as the primary backup, a decision that has prompted public reassurance from the front office even as questions swirl about Richardson's long term future with the franchise. Coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard said the club intends to keep Richardson in Indianapolis and use the coming season as a development opportunity, but Richardson's agent said trust between player and team is strained.

Jones, who signed a one year deal with the Colts this offseason, won a training camp competition and will open the regular season under center. Steichen said Jones is the starter for the season and praised the veteran's professionalism, adding that Richardson has accepted his role and is preparing like a starter. "He's still attacking it the right way, coming in, being a pro, getting in here early, taking care of his body, rehabbing, treatment," Steichen said. "In the QB room, he's preparing like he's the starter."

Ballard was blunt when asked whether Richardson would be moved. "We're not trading him," he said, and countered...