Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones are two quarterbacks cut from the same cloth. Both have explosive ability in the run game but struggle with passing consistency, and both have seen their stock take a hit over the last 12 months.
Jones and Richardson are locked in a head-to-head battle for the chance to lead the Indianapolis Colts for at least one more season. Plenty of eyes will be on the competition when it ramps up in August, including the eyes of Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.
Jim Bob Cooter Claims QB Competition Between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones Will Be ‘Fun To Watch’
Speaking to reporters on May 7 via Pro Football Talk, Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter said the competition would be “fun.”
“Yeah, those guys are, I think, eager to compete,” Cooter said. “[C]ompetition kind of makes us all better. Got an opportunity to go out there and get some reps, and go through our process.”
“Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or hearing it for the 10th time, spring is always a good time of year to dive back into the details in the quarterback room, especially, and kind of make sure you’re in lockstep with what we’re doing offensively, and that can give you the best chance to go succeed. So those guys are putting in good work here, and it’s going to be fun to watch,” he said.
Of course, calling it “fun” to watch two players fight for the chance to lead an NFL team is a viewpoint usually left to fans, not someone helping make the decision. However, perhaps Cooter’s positive attitude about the situation can keep his quarterback room calm and confident.
Third Colts Quarterback Adds Additional Twist to Competition
While the spotlight is on Richardson and Jones, don’t forget about the rookie quarterback the Indianapolis Colts added. Sixth-round pick Riley Leonard fits the same mold as the other two quarterbacks.
He ran for 906 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2024, showing he can quickly take off and gain yards.
Leonard won several high-profile games en route to an appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship game, showing he can handle pressure. While Jones and Richardson are the early favorites for Week 1 because of their experience, Leonard is the wild card to watch.
If he outshines both veterans in practice, his chances of getting a start at some point could rise in a hurry, no matter what the early depth chart says.