Colts Lock In Daniel Jones as 2025 Starter While Richardson Continues Growth

Colts’ Quarterback Shake-Up: Why Shane Steichen’s Choice of Daniel Jones Over Anthony Richardson Makes Sense

The quarterback debate in Indianapolis has been one of the hottest talking points of the offseason. Everyone knew it was going to be a battle, and on Tuesday, head coach Shane Steichen finally made the call: Daniel Jones will be the starting quarterback for the Colts in 2025.

That decision didn’t just spark debates among fans—it caught the attention of the locker room too. On Wednesday, linebacker Zaire Franklin, one of the vocal leaders of the team, opened up about the competition and what this means for the Colts’ future.

Zaire Franklin’s Take on the QB Competition

Franklin didn’t shy away from praising both guys.

“Both those guys battled and competed,” Franklin told reporters. “They went about their work in the right way. Different personalities, sure, but they kept making each other better—and that’s what this team needed.”

For Franklin, it’s less about who gets the nod and more about the energy inside the building. “Honestly, just from my point of view, I feel like this team is ready to go. This locker room is ready to go. We believe in who we are as a team.”

That kind of statement doesn’t just hype up the players—it gives fans a glimpse into how tight this Colts roster has become under Steichen’s leadership.

Steichen’s Formula for Picking His QB

From the very beginning of the offseason, Steichen laid down the ground rules: the most consistent quarterback would win the job.

Now, that’s not always the flashiest or most headline-grabbing approach. Fans often want the young, electric prospect to get his shot right away. But Steichen, known for his detailed approach to offensive schemes, wasn’t only looking at raw stats.

Yes, Daniel Jones ended training camp with more completions than Anthony Richardson. But Steichen pointed out that many other factors played into the decision:

• Ball placement

• Line of scrimmage checks

• Protection calls

• Overall operation of the offense

This wasn’t about who threw the longest bomb in camp or who had the highlight play. It was about who could run the offense efficiently every single down.

Richardson’s Growth Can’t Be Ignored

Now, let’s not pretend Richardson didn’t show serious flashes. His offseason focus was all about tightening up the fundamentals—especially footwork. That extra work showed.

• His short and intermediate passing game became sharper.

• Efficiency in controlled throws went up.

• His command of the offense noticeably improved.

Teammates even pointed out that Richardson looked different this summer compared to last season. His preparation? Spot on. His mindset? Locked in.

Still, Steichen emphasized something important: growth is still ongoing. Richardson isn’t a finished product, and the coaching staff wants him developing without the weight of being thrown into the fire right away.

No QB Carousel This Time

One thing Steichen made clear—Jones is the starter for the 2025 season. The plan isn’t to flip-flop between Jones and Richardson whenever things get shaky.

That’s a refreshing stance because quarterback controversies can split locker rooms. By sticking with Jones, Steichen is sending a clear message: consistency and stability are priorities.

Franklin echoed that belief. “We trusted Shane to make the decision. Whoever he gave the keys to the car to, that’s who puts us in the best spot to win. But that doesn’t mean we don’t believe in Anthony. I firmly believe in who he is and the kind of player he’s capable of becoming.”

That last part? Crucial. It shows that while Richardson isn’t the starter, the team isn’t giving up on him. If anything, they’re rooting for his growth behind the scenes.

Why Daniel Jones Fits the Colts’ Needs Right Now

Let’s be real—Daniel Jones isn’t the shiny new toy in the NFL anymore. But what he brings to the Colts at this moment might be exactly what they need:

• Experience under pressure – He’s been through highs and lows in New York.

• Consistency with mechanics – Not flashy, but reliable.

• Steady leadership – A calm presence in the huddle for a young roster.

For a Colts team that feels “ready to go,” as Franklin put it, the choice makes sense. The defense looks strong, the offensive line has something to prove, and the skill positions are stacked with potential. Steichen probably figured the best move was to roll with the QB who can keep the ship steady while Richardson continues to sharpen his tools.

What This Means for Richardson’s Future

If you’re worried about Richardson, don’t be. This isn’t a “we don’t trust him” situation—it’s a long game approach.

Think of it this way:

• He’s learning under a system tailored for efficiency.

• He’s being challenged to master details rather than just rely on raw talent.

• He’s surrounded by teammates who openly support his development.

Richardson might not be QB1 in Week 1, but he’s still very much QB1 in the future plans of this organization.

Franklin’s Final Word: Growth is the Goal

Zaire Franklin left Colts fans with a statement that pretty much sums it all up:

“Every situation is an opportunity for growth. You just gotta use it like that, continue to grow, and we’re going to keep getting better.”

That’s not just about Richardson or Jones. That’s about the entire team. The Colts aren’t in rebuild mode—they’re in growth mode.

Key Takeaways:

1. Daniel Jones wins the QB job—thanks to consistency and overall command.

2. Anthony Richardson showed major improvement—but still has more developing to do.

3. Shane Steichen wants stability—no quarterback carousel this season.

4. The locker room is united—players like Franklin emphasize belief in both QBs.

5. The long-term future is still bright—Richardson is being groomed carefully, not rushed.

Final Thoughts

Shane Steichen had a tough decision, but he made it clear: the Colts are rolling with Daniel Jones in 2025. While some fans may have hoped for Richardson to take the reins immediately, the reality is that this move prioritizes the team’s readiness to win now while also allowing Richardson to keep developing into the star many believe he’ll become.

And if Zaire Franklin’s confidence is any indication, this Colts team isn’t just waiting for the future—they’re ready to compete right now.