Exploring the Indianapolis Colts’ Strategy with Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones

Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Battle: Anthony Richardson vs. Daniel Jones

The Colts enter 2025 with a quarterback situation that’s more unsettled than many want to admit. While much of the offseason chatter has assumed Richardson will reclaim the starting job, there’s a real case that Jones could open Week 1 under center.

The Colts have a track record of making unconventional QB decisions—see the late-career Philip Rivers signing or Jeff Saturday’s midseason coaching appointment. If history is any guide, Richardson starting is far from guaranteed. And even if he does, there’s a strong chance both quarterbacks will see significant playing time over the course of the season.

How the QB Decision Impacts Fantasy

• Richardson
  
  Richardson’s rushing ability gives him a higher weekly ceiling, but durability concerns linger. In single-QB redraft formats, he’s best as a late-round upside pick. In superflex leagues, he’s worth drafting as a QB2, knowing his value hinges on playing time and health.

• Jones
  
  Jones doesn’t carry the same rushing upside post-injury, but his experience could appeal to the Colts if Richardson struggles or isn’t fully healthy. In fantasy, he’s a low-end QB3 in superflex formats, purely for depth.

Skill Players in the Spotlight

• Jonathan Taylor (RB)
  
  Still a low-end RB1, Taylor will likely face plenty of stacked boxes unless the passing game forces defenses to adjust. His second-round ADP is justified, but volume may be the main driver of his fantasy value in 2025.

• Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs (WRs)
  
  Both project as WR3/Flex options. Pittman’s target volume keeps him in the weekly conversation, but QB inconsistency will limit his ceiling. Downs is more matchup-dependent.

• Tyler Warren (TE)
  
  The most intriguing Colts pass catcher in fantasy. A reliable red-zone target and chain-mover, Warren’s value rises in an offense with shaky downfield passing. Currently drafted as TE13, he’s a strong sleeper candidate to finish as a back-end TE1.

Fantasy Draft Strategy

Given the uncertainty at quarterback:

• Target Warren as a late-round TE with upside.

• Draft Taylor with the expectation of RB1 volume, but temper efficiency expectations.

• In superflex, both Richardson and Jones are worth rostering, though neither is a weekly lock.

Betting Market View

Sportsbooks have taken a cautious approach:

• Colts Win Total: 6.5 to 7.0 wins depending on the book.

• Week 1 Starter Odds: Slight lean toward Richardson, but Jones’ price has shortened in recent weeks.

• Jonathan Taylor Rushing Yards O/U: Around 1,050.5 yards—achievable if he plays 15+ games, regardless of QB.

Betting Lean: If you believe Jones starts early, unders on Richardson’s season-long props may offer value. If Richardson wins and holds the job, Taylor’s touchdown total could climb, given his red-zone usage in an RPO-heavy offense.

Bottom Line

The Colts’ quarterback situation is a genuine two-man race, and fantasy managers need to plan accordingly. Richardson offers upside, Jones offers stability, and both could see time in 2025. The safest fantasy investment in Indianapolis remains Taylor, while Warren is the clear sleeper to target late in drafts.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.