Overview

• Head coach Shane Steichen announced Jones as the starter for 2025 after an open competition, endorsing the veteran’s operation, communication and consistency.
• Jones, 28, signed a one-year, $14 million deal in March and completed 17 of 32 passes for 245 yards in two preseason games after a turbulent exit from the Giants and a stint with the Vikings.
• Richardson, 23, opens as the No. 2 after two injury-plagued seasons and accuracy struggles; the team still must decide on his 2027 fifth-year option, with leadership publicly preaching patience.
• Reaction to the decision included Robert Griffin III suggesting on social media that the Colts are aiming to tank for Arch Manning and Richardson’s agent questioning whether the outcome was predetermined, both presented as opinions.
• Indianapolis lists Jones atop a depth chart that also includes Richardson, rookie Riley Leonard and Jason Bean, with the regular-season opener set for Sept. 7 against Miami and some outlets speculating about a 2026 QB draft target.