Colts Name Anthony Richardson Starting QB for Preseason Opener

The Indianapolis Colts have announced that quarterback Anthony Richardson will start in their preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens on August 10, 2023. This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing quarterback competition between Richardson and Daniel Jones, who is also vying for the starting position. Head Coach Shane Steichen revealed the news following a joint practice session on Tuesday at the Ravens’ training facility, where both quarterbacks showed impressive performances against a strong Baltimore defense.

Steichen emphasized that this choice is part of a broader strategy to evaluate both quarterbacks thoroughly throughout training camp. “We want to take a long look at both guys in practices, joint scrimmages, and preseason games before making a final decision,” Steichen explained. As part of this plan, Jones is set to start in the team’s second preseason game on August 16 against the Green Bay Packers in Indianapolis.

During the match against the Ravens, Richardson is expected to play for approximately “a quarter and a half,” while Jones will see around “half a quarter” of action. Although the Colts will rest several key starters, limiting Richardson’s access to his full roster of playmakers and offensive linemen, the Ravens are also not anticipated to field their starters.

Steichen noted that while Tuesday’s practice did not significantly distinguish either quarterback, both performed well. “I thought there were some really good things being done offensively,” he stated. “I thought both quarterbacks did some really good things.”

Steichen has committed to taking his time with the decision on the starting quarterback position, indicating that he is willing to wait until after the preseason to finalize his choice. Richardson has served as the Colts’ starter for the past two seasons but has faced challenges with consistency, completing just 50.6% of his passes throughout his career. Injuries have also impacted his performance, forcing him to miss 17 games due to various ailments.

On the other hand, Jones, who was previously the starting quarterback for the New York Giants, was released last season after a demotion. He signed a one-year contract worth $14 million with the Colts as he seeks to rejuvenate his career.

As the Colts prepare for their matchup against the Ravens, the battle for the starting quarterback role promises to be a focal point throughout the preseason, providing fans with an intriguing storyline to follow as the regular season approaches.