Anthony Richardson’s next step in Indianapolis is no longer about hype. It is about survival in a crowded quarterback room. The Colts quarterback picture became more interesting this week when Daniel Jones progressed to seven-on-seven work during OTAs. Head coach Shane Steichen said Jones will stay in seven-on-seven through the end of OTAs, with the expectation that he will be ready for full-team work when training camp begins. That matters because Jones is still tracking like the quarterback Indianapolis wants ready for Week 1 of the NFL season. That leaves Richardson in a very different position than he once held.

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Colts Add More Quarterback Depth

The Colts also signed veteran quarterback Easton Stick, while waiving Seth Henigan, adding another experienced arm to a group that already includes Jones, Richardson, and Riley Leonard. Stick is not coming in as a hero, but his arrival crowds the quarterback room and gives Indianapolis another option if health or performance becomes an issue.

Richardson’s Focus Shifts to Development

For Richardson, the assignment is obvious. He has to become steadier.

For his part, Richardson says he’s excited to return to the field, working back from the eye injury he suffered last season, focusing on mechanics and footwork, learning from Jones and competing with Leonard. That is the real roadmap now. Not the highlight throws. Not the flashes. Rather, the day-to-day quarterback work.

Richardson still has the physical tools that made him so intriguing. He can run, extend plays, and stress defenses in ways most quarterbacks cannot. But Indianapolis needs to know whether he can protect the football, stay healthy, make routine throws, and operate the offense.

Jones’ recovery may close the door on an immediate starting battle. But Richardson still has a lot to play for. His next step is proving he can be trusted as more than a talented backup plan.

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