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Colts Keep Backup Quarterback Race Open as Roster Decision Nears

The team’s stated plan to carry three playable quarterbacks makes Anthony Richardson’s retention more likely and pushes the Riley Leonard competition into the final preseason week.

Overview

  • Both Anthony Richardson and Riley Leonard struggled in the Colts’ 34-6 preseason loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday, raising fresh questions about who will be Daniel Jones’s primary backup.
  • Assistant GM Ed Dodds has said the Colts want three quarterbacks who can play, a public stance that increases the chance the team keeps Richardson rather than trade him.
  • Richardson’s spring trade request remains active and the franchise has not ruled out moving him, but front-office comments and roster needs have so far limited trade activity.
  • Head coach Shane Steichen has given no timetable for naming a No. 2 quarterback, leaving the decision to be resolved in the final preseason game and by the Aug. 30 53-man cutdown.
  • The outcome matters for player development and injury insurance because Daniel Jones is returning from a major injury, Richardson is a former No. 4 pick with contract questions, and a thin trade market could influence Indianapolis to prioritize depth over moving assets.