BREAKING NEWS: “This is my final call” — Colts GM Chris Ballard Shocks Coaching Staff, Names Daniel Jones Starting QB Over Anthony Richardson
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard has made a stunning quarterback decision, officially naming Daniel Jones as the team’s starting QB over former top pick Anthony Richardson. The unexpected announcement blindsided Head Coach Shane Steichen and much of the Colts coaching staff, who had been preparing for Richardson’s return from injury.
“This is my final call,” Ballard stated firmly during a press conference at the Colts’ training facility. “We’ve evaluated everything — health, consistency, availability — and at this point, Daniel Jones gives us the best chance to compete from Week 1.”
Richardson, the Colts’ 2023 first-round draft pick, has struggled to stay healthy in his short NFL career. A shoulder injury derailed his rookie season, and although expectations were high for a full return in 2024, lingering injury concerns have plagued his offseason development. Sources inside the organization revealed that Richardson has been limited in both OTA reps and full-contact practice sessions, raising concerns about his long-term durability.
Meanwhile, Daniel Jones, the former New York Giants quarterback, signed with the Colts earlier this year after being released by New York. Though his tenure with the Giants was marked by inconsistency, Ballard and the Colts front office see Jones as a reliable veteran who can lead the team while Richardson fully recovers.
“Daniel has experience, leadership, and has shown he can win games when surrounded by the right support,” Ballard added. “Our offensive line is improved, our receivers are ready, and we need a quarterback who can hit the ground running.”
Coach Steichen, known for his development of young quarterbacks, appeared visibly surprised by the announcement. While he has consistently supported Richardson as the franchise’s future, the GM’s decision appears to override the coaching plan heading into training camp.
“This caught me off guard,” a Colts assistant coach reportedly said off the record. “We were preparing the offense to run through Richardson, but now we’ll have to pivot. Daniel is a pro, and he’ll adjust fast, but this changes everything.”
Fan reactions have been mixed. Many supporters on social media expressed frustration, fearing the move could derail Richardson’s growth. Others, however, praised Ballard’s willingness to make a tough call to ensure the team is competitive this season.
NFL insiders suggest this decision may also hint at deeper concerns within the organization about Richardson’s long-term health. While Ballard insisted the move is not a sign of giving up on Richardson, it’s clear the former Florida standout now faces an uphill battle to reclaim his starting role.
The Colts are scheduled to open the preseason in three weeks, with Jones now set to lead the offense onto the field. Whether this decision will steady the franchise or spark further controversy remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: Chris Ballard has drawn a line in the sand.
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