Anthony Richardson Named Colts Backup QB Behind Daniel Jones
Anthony Richardson is the Indianapolis Colts' backup quarterback. He beat Riley Leonard for the No. 2 job behind starter Daniel Jones.
Coach Shane Steichen confirmed the decision Thursday, with Richardson entering Week 1 as Jones' primary understudy. The announcement settles the quarterback battle and answers the biggest question surrounding the Colts' depth chart.
Richardson said he is thankful the Colts believe in him enough to make him QB2. Those words carry weight. For a player who has faced doubts about his development, being named the No. 2 is not a demotion. It is a sign of trust. The Colts could have chosen Leonard, the younger option. They did not. They chose Richardson to be one snap away from the offense.
The hierarchy now reads Jones, Richardson, Leonard. That order matters. Jones is the starter the team committed to, and Richardson is the player this coaching staff wants backing him up. Leonard's work in the preseason was not enough to flip that.
Steichen's timing is also meaningful. Announcing the decision Thursday gives Richardson a full week to settle into his role. There is no ambiguity as the season opener approaches.
This setup fits Richardson's stage of growth. He gets to watch Jones handle weekly preparation, stay engaged in the game plan, and avoid the pressure that comes with being the face of the franchise. But he also stays close enough that the Colts could stay competitive if Jones misses time.
My verdict: the Colts have built the right insurance policy at the most important position on the field. They believe in Richardson's ceiling, and now that belief is public. For a team in need of stability under center, that is a quiet, significant win.