As the Indianapolis Colts gear up for the 2026 NFL season, the team has officially settled its quarterback hierarchy. Head coach Shane Steichen announced on Thursday, September 3, that Anthony Richardson Sr. will serve as the backup to starter Daniel Jones, while Riley Leonard will open the season as the third-string quarterback. The decision caps a fiercely contested offseason battle that saw Richardson and Leonard split reps throughout training camp and the preseason.
A Hard-Fought Competition
Richardson's path to the QB2 role was far from straightforward. After requesting a trade in February, his future in Indianapolis appeared uncertain. Yet, the former No. 4 overall pick remained with the team, and his preseason performance—21-of-33 passing for 249 yards—was enough to edge out Leonard. Richardson expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "I'm thankful the Colts believed in me enough to promote me to QB2. I'm ready to work and provide my best self." General manager Chris Ballard has consistently praised Richardson's attitude, signaling a positive shift in the organization's view of the young quarterback.
Why Richardson Over Leonard?
From a roster perspective, the choice makes sense. Richardson, despite being raw and inconsistent, offers a higher immediate ceiling with his elite rushing ability and starting experience. Leonard, who showed flashes in a regular-season game against the Texans last year, still appears to need development time. Keeping Leonard as QB3 allows the Colts to nurture his potential without thrusting him into a pressure-packed backup role. As the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk notes, this decision provides Indianapolis with a safety net that balances experience and upside.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
While being named QB2 does not restore Richardson to franchise-quarterback status—Jones remains the clear starter—it does stabilize his position on the roster. Months after his trade request, Richardson has found a role, and the Colts now have clarity heading into Week 1. The team's quarterback room is set: Jones, Richardson, and Leonard, in that order. Whether Richardson's future extends beyond this season remains to be seen, but for now, he has earned a spot on the depth chart and a chance to prove his value.
"Richardson's athleticism and experience give the Colts a dynamic backup option, but his development will be key if he's called upon," said a Vulius Sports analyst.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Indianapolis to see how this quarterback situation unfolds. For Richardson, this is a chance to rebuild his stock and demonstrate that he can be a reliable contributor, whether as a backup or a potential starter down the line.
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