The Notre Dame product has appeared in four games this season, but only had an extended start in Week 14 against the Jaguars, after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
Leonard stepped in for Jones during that game and showed a strong arm, though he was mediocre with 145 yards and an interception on 18-of-29 passing in the 36-19 loss. Leonard also took part in the final play of the Week 17 loss to the Jags, mostly as a pinch-hitter on a Hail Mary from the middle, but the prayer was intercepted.
Jones’ injury is what set off one of the NFL’s most fascinating storylines in recent memory.
Rather than thrust Leonard into the spotlight with a chance to prove himself and halt the Colts’ spiral from a 7-1 start to an 8-5 record at that point, the Colts instead chose the 44-year-old Rivers, who had retired after the 2020 campaign and was one of 26 modern-day Football Hall of Fame semifinalists.
Rivers took the opportunity to extend the Hall of Fame window another five years to attempt an incredible save.
He gave it his best shot and seemed able to attack with guile rather than arm strength. He threw for 544 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions, but ultimately went 0-3, unable to change the Colts’ fortunes. Although the effort was unsuccessful, he said he has no regrets.
Now the Colts turn to Leonard again in what will surely be a test.
In his first career start, he will travel to face a formidable Houston defense that ranks first in yards and points allowed.
He and the Colts face the Texans on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET.