Richardson Secures Backup Role Behind Jones as Colts Finalize Depth Chart

Key points

• Shane Steichen announced on September 3 that Anthony Richardson is the No. 2 quarterback behind Daniel Jones for the 2026 regular season.
• Richardson won the backup competition over Riley Leonard, who will serve as the third-string quarterback.
• Steichen cited Richardson's superior play in preseason games as the deciding factor, noting that both players had good camps but Richardson performed better in actual games.
• Richardson is in the final year of his rookie contract and has previously requested a trade, but he returned to offseason workouts and stated he is preparing to be with the team for the season start.
• Daniel Jones, who suffered a torn Achilles last season, is the current starter; his health will determine if Richardson gets another chance to start.
• Wide receiver Keenan Allen, recently arrested for drunken driving, is expected to play in the Week 1 opener against the Baltimore Ravens, though he and the coaching staff are declining to discuss the legal matter publicly.

Background

Anthony Richardson was drafted by the Colts with the fourth overall pick in 2023 as their future franchise quarterback. However, a combination of injuries, inconsistent accuracy, and a notable incident where he left a game early due to fatigue led the team to sign Daniel Jones in 2025. Richardson lost the starting competition to Jones and subsequently missed the latter half of the 2025 season due to an eye injury. He has since made two trade requests but returned to the team for the 2026 offseason, where he competed for the backup role against rookie Riley Leonard. The Colts' 2026 season opener is scheduled for September 13 against the Baltimore Ravens.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and 93.5/107.5 The Fan focus primarily on the quarterback depth chart, highlighting Steichen's decision to name Richardson the backup based on preseason performance. FOX Sports provides a broader context, linking the QB decision to the ongoing legal issues surrounding wide receiver Keenan Allen. While NBC and The Fan emphasize Richardson's improved game management and readiness, FOX Sports notes the tension between Richardson's previous trade requests and his current commitment to the team. All sources agree that Richardson is content with the backup role for now, but FOX Sports uniquely details Allen's arrest and the team's decision to keep the matter private while confirming his participation in the first game.

Why it matters

The decision solidifies the Colts' quarterback hierarchy for the 2026 season, providing clarity on the backup role after a turbulent period for Richardson. It also highlights the team's reliance on Daniel Jones, whose health will be critical. If Jones is injured, Richardson may have another opportunity to start, potentially influencing his long-term future with the franchise. Additionally, the confirmation that Keenan Allen will play despite his legal issues underscores the team's focus on on-field performance and the complexity of managing high-profile player issues during the season.

What to watch

The Colts will take a mandated weekend off before reconvening for their regular season opener on September 13 against the Baltimore Ravens. Daniel Jones is expected to start, with Anthony Richardson serving as the backup. The team will also finalize Keenan Allen's jersey number, with reports suggesting he may wear No. 11 after previously trying No. 10. The Colts' performance in the first few weeks will be crucial in determining if Richardson gets another chance to start, particularly if Jones suffers any injuries.