### Colts Seek Competition for Anthony Richardson as Starting QB The Indianapolis Colts are actively exploring options to enhance their quarterback situation ahead of the 2025 NFL season. General Manager Chris Ballard has indicated that the team will hold an "open competition" for the starting quarterback position, which will include Anthony Richardson, the 2023 first-round draft pick. This decision comes after a tumultuous season for Richardson, who faced injuries and inconsistent performance. The Colts are reportedly considering bringing in a veteran quarterback to challenge Richardson, with names like a former Giants QB rumored to be on their radar for a potential $160 million deal. This move aims to create a competitive environment that could push Richardson to improve and secure his position as the starter. ### Structure of the Colts' Quarterback Situation 1. **Open Competition Announcement** - Chris Ballard confirmed that the Colts will not guarantee Richardson the starting role, emphasizing the need for competition [https://www.si.com/nfl/chris-ballard-anthony-richardson-as-colts-starting-qb-competition-2025]. 2. **Potential Veteran Acquisitions** - The Colts are eyeing several veteran quarterbacks in the free agency market to provide competition for Richardson [https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/indianapolis-colts/nfl-rumors-4-veteran-qb-options-colts-eyeing-compete-anthony-richardson]. 3. **Richardson's Offseason Training** - Richardson plans to train with established quarterbacks like Josh Allen to enhance his skills and prepare for the competition [https://www.si.com/nfl/colts-anthony-richardson-training-with-bills-josh-allen-this-offseason]. 4. **Insider Predictions** - Some insiders believe that despite the competition, Richardson is likely to remain the starter, as the Colts are invested in his development [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/colts_insider_makes_bold_prediction_about_anthony_richardson_open_competition/s1_13132_41827109]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Richardson's Performance**: In his second season, Richardson struggled with injuries and was benched, leading to questions about his future as a starter [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/colts-gm-says-anthony-richardson-will-face-open-competition-for-starting-qb-job-next-season-231329520.html]. - **Colts' Strategy**: The Colts' strategy to bring in a competitive quarterback aligns with their goal to improve after missing the playoffs last season [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6160222/2025/02/25/colts-anthony-richardson-qb-competition-chris-ballard]. - **Training Partnerships**: Collaborating with experienced quarterbacks like Josh Allen is seen as a crucial step for Richardson to refine his skills [https://www.si.com/nfl/colts/news/chris-ballard-anthony-richardson-colts-qb-situation]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Season for Richardson and the Colts In summary, the Indianapolis Colts are poised for a significant offseason as they prepare for an open competition for the starting quarterback position. **Key points include**: 1. **Open Competition**: Chris Ballard's announcement sets the stage for a competitive environment, crucial for Richardson's development [https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44015259/colts-plan-hold-open-competition-quarterback-anthony-richardson-determined-offseason-acquisition]. 2. **Veteran Options**: The Colts are actively seeking veteran quarterbacks to challenge Richardson, indicating a serious commitment to improving their roster [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/indianapolis-colts/news/colts-eyeing-ex-giants-160-million-qb-anthony-richardson/f640ab817e3582614e95300e]. 3. **Richardson's Growth**: Training with established players like Josh Allen could be pivotal for Richardson as he aims to secure his role [https://www.si.com/nfl/colts-anthony-richardson-training-with-bills-josh-allen-this-offseason]. This offseason will be critical for both Richardson and the Colts as they look to rebound and establish a more competitive team for the upcoming season.