Complicating matters is the fact that Jones is an unrestricted free agent and his rehab could delay the start of the 2026 season. Nevertheless, Ballard seemed to indicate that Jones remains in the Colts’ future plans.
“I think Daniel Jones has a bright future here in Indianapolis,” Ballard said.
Ballard added, “I think (coming back is) a win-win. I think Daniel was a very good fit for this organization and I think this organization and city was a very good fit for Daniel.”
The fact that Richardson was still recovering from a career break when Jones got hurt compounded the issue, robbing the young QB of a chance to save his season and the Colts, and having to get Rivers out of the game after four-plus years out of the league. Ballard indicated Thursday that he tried to make a trade for another quarterback at the deadline but was unsuccessful.
Richardson was unable to return to the field in 2025, keeping his future in Indianapolis unclear. Is there still a role for him with the Colts next season?
“It’s a very fair question,” Ballard said. “I was very happy with Anthony. I think you knew that even after we named Daniel Jones the starter. Unfortunately for Anthony, he’s been very unlucky. … Anthony was making really good strides.”
“I’ll tell you this about Anthony – he’s a great teammate, he’s a great teammate. He never got upset, never complained, was doing a great job as a backup and then had a freak accident in the locker room. I think time will tell.”
The Colts also have 2025 sixth-round QB Riley Leonard, who originally replaced Jones and played well early in Week 18 after Rivers was benched.
Now the franchise must decide which quarterback will return and if they need help from outside the building. There has been near-constant turmoil at the position since Andrew Luck suddenly retired years ago.
“When you’re chasing the quarterback all the time, it’s tough,” Ballard said. “Your perception is shrinking.”