The Indianapolis Colts find themselves in a challenging situation at the quarterback position as the 2026 offseason approaches. With starting quarterback Daniel Jones sidelined for the entire season and key defensive player Mooney Ward on injured reserve again due to a concussion, the Colts are grappling with significant injuries. Adding to their woes, recent acquisition Sauce Gardner is also out with a calf injury.
Before these injuries struck, the Colts were riding high in the NFL, with Jones delivering some of the best performances of his career. However, the discussion around the future of general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen has quieted, allowing them to focus on resolving the ongoing quarterback dilemma.
In the absence of Jones, the Colts have turned to 2025 seventh-round draft pick Riley Leonard and veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, who is now 44 years old. Meanwhile, Anthony Richardson remains injured, leaving the team”s future quarterback situation uncertain. Leonard, while showing promise, lacks the experience needed to lead a team effectively. Richardson”s potential is still a question mark, and the decision to bring back Rivers for another season remains up in the air.
Aside from these options, the Colts must consider whether to extend Jones” contract. Given that Jones is expected to miss a substantial portion of next year and may not return to form, the team faces a tough decision. A one-year deal for Jones seems likely, but the Colts will also need to contemplate acquiring a veteran quarterback to bolster their lineup.
Potential options include Kyler Murray, whose relationship with the Arizona Cardinals appears strained. However, trading for him could prove costly in both assets and salary, especially if he were to end up as a backup to Jones when he returns. On the other hand, Mac Jones could be a more viable option at a lower price point. He is slated to earn $4.66 million next year, making him an affordable choice for a backup role.
While Mac Jones may not fit perfectly into the Colts” offensive scheme, he has demonstrated the ability to perform well in a backup capacity when called upon. Beyond these considerations, the Colts have expressed that they have not given up on Richardson, who may still have an opportunity to compete for the starting role or serve as a reliable backup when Jones returns.
The Colts are in a precarious position as they navigate through the aftermath of their injuries and roster decisions. With the high stakes involved after trading draft capital for Gardner, the 2025 season may not conclude as they hoped, and the beginning of 2026 could present even more challenges. Regardless, critical decisions loom on the horizon.
