Will the Indianapolis Colts bring in competition this offseason for quarterback Anthony Richardson?
That, according to head coach Shane Steichen, is still to be decided.
“I think that’s a conversation that Chris (Ballard) and I will have moving forward,” said Steichen on Monday.
However, if that is the path that the Colts go down this offseason, whether it be via the draft or free agency, Richardson is ready for it.
“I’m a natural competitor,” Richardson said via the team site. “I’ve been competing all my life. I love competing. So if the team feels like that’s the right direction we want to go in, I’m all for competing.”
The Colts signed veteran Joe Flacco last offseason in free agency, however, at least through training camp and the first part of the year, there was never a true competition. The starting quarterback role was always going to be Richardson’s job during that time frame. Flacco was there to be the backup and that was clear from Day 1.
However, Richardson will now be entering his third NFL season in 2025, and while there were positive moments sprinkled throughout the season, which included two game-winning drives late in the fourth quarter against the Jets and Patriots, the overall consistency wasn’t there and that reflected in the offense’s struggles.
Richardson finished the 2024 season completing just 47.7% of his passes at 6.9 yards per attempt with eight touchdowns to 12 interceptions. Compared to his peers, out of 44 eligible quarterbacks, Richardson ranked last in completion percentage, 23rd in yards per attempt, and last in passer rating with the fifth-highest turnover-worthy play rate.
I imagine the hope would be that if competition is brought in, it would help Richardson elevate his play because he’s being pushed and that starting spot isn’t guaranteed. On the flip side, if Richardson didn’t win the job, while that may seal his fate with the Colts long-term, on the field there would hopefully be more steady quarterback play.
Regardless of whether the Colts want real competition for Richardson or not, additions at this position will have to be made. Under contract for the 2025 season currently at the quarterback position are only Richardson and Jason Bean. At a bare minimum, depth will be needed.
“If not,” said Richardson if the Colts don’t add competition, “I’m still here competing, working my tail off to be the best person I can for this team. I can’t really control everything that comes with the NFL but I know I can control what I can, and I’m gonna do my part to be the best version of myself for the organization.”