Why NFL Insiders Predict Anthony Richardson to Be Colts' QB1 Over Daniel Jones

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is predicted to win the starting job over Daniel Jones, per Dan Graziano of ESPN's discussion of four preseason QB1 training camp battles.

"I know Jones appears to have taken over the No. 1 spot on the depth chart after Richardson's spring injury, but training camp is where Richardson looks the best -- if he's healthy, he's likely to outperform Jones on the practice field.

"The Colts also have a lot more invested in Richardson, and if it's a close competition, most people I talk to believe that will tilt things in his favor -- at least to start the season. Whether he can stay healthy enough or play well enough to hold the job is another matter entirely."

Richardson suffered an aggravation of the AC joint in his right shoulder in June that kept him out for some offseason team workouts.

That was of much concern considering Richardson suffered an injury to the AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder in 2023, and he underwent season-ending surgery as a result of the ailment.

However, not only was Richardson good to go for the start of training camp, but he's handled most of the full-team snaps with offensive starters without limitations, per ESPN's Stephen Holder.

Richardson is entering his third NFL season. He showed great promise in limited action in his 2023 rookie season, but unfortunately, was limited to just four games due to the AC joint injury.

In 2024, Richardson played 11 games but struggled to find his receivers, completing just 47.7 percent of his passes for eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

He did at times make huge, jaw-dropping throws downfield to his receivers, showcasing the ceiling that the Colts envisioned when they took the ex-Florida signal-caller with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft.

Richardson dealt with injuries that forced him to miss a few games. He was also benched for two contests in favor of backup Joe Flacco as well.

Now he's in year three, and the Colts hope he can take the starting gig, keep it and flourish. The job seems like Richardson's to lose, but the Colts also have Jones waiting in the wings if needed for whatever reason.

Ultimately, no one has won the QB1 role officially just yet, and the Colts have time to figure that out before their season begins on Sept. 7 against the Miami Dolphins.