The Indianapolis Colts are getting a harsh reality check about their Daniel Jones gamble. They’re quickly learning why the Giants practically gave up on him and why he never took a snap in Minnesota. Jones has been a question mark since day one – even as a top-10 pick back in 2019. But the Colts walked right into this mess themselves.
Shane Steichen is now using preseason games as a quarterback competition audition. His plan? Richardson gets a quarter and a half in the first preseason game before Jones takes over, then they’ll flip-flop roles in game two, according to Angela Moryan of WISH News 8.
Richardson just got first-team reps at Tuesday’s practice.
daniel jones doing daniel jones things pic.twitter.com/Wgyw22iKIl
— Beckett (@twinbervikes) August 3, 2025
Here’s what’s gonna happen: After these preseason games, Steichen and the Colts will be right back where they started – confused about who should start and stuck with two questionable options.
The Colts created this QB mess themselves – now they’re paying for it
GM Chris Ballard already admitted he caved to pressure when starting Richardson in Week 1 last year – a decision that hampered the rookie’s development. They’ve mishandled his career from the jump, failing to provide the runway for growth that Richardson desperately needed. Remember, he came into the league as one of the least experienced first-round QBs we’ve seen in years.
Richardson always needed time and reps. Adding Jones to the mix just muddles everything. Sure, Jones might be the “safer” option right now – but that doesn’t mean he’s the better player. There’s a reason the Giants dumped him midseason after handing him that ridiculous $160 million extension. The Colts will figure that out soon enough.
Jones was never going to elevate this team. At his absolute best, he might deliver slightly more consistent play than a developing Richardson. But we’ve already seen flashes of Richardson’s ceiling – it’s miles higher than what Jones offers.
If Richardson doesn’t win the job, don’t be fooled. It won’t be because Jones outplayed him. It’ll be because Steichen is being overly cautious after last year’s rushed approach backfired. He’s scared to hand over the keys before Richardson is absolutely ready.