Colts Quarterback Preview: Who Will Make the 53‑Man Roster?

Locked In: Jones and Leonard

Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard are the clear locks for the Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback room. Both players are expected to secure spots on the 53‑man roster as training camp approaches. Whether Leonard ends up as the primary backup over Anthony Richardson remains uncertain, but his place on the team is guaranteed.

Trade Market for Anthony Richardson

Anthony Richardson has not been dealt, and his trade request stays active while a soft deadline looms. The Colts must decide whether to meet a potential deal before Richardson’s $4.2 million roster bonus becomes a recruiting lure for other franchises. According to The Athletic’s James Boyd, if the Colts keep Richardson through that bonus date and pay it, an acquiring team would only owe $1.1 million for the 2026 season. This financial upside could push a transaction across the finish line.

Why the Colts Favor a Three‑QB Rotation

Under head coach Shane Steichen, the Colts have historically carried three quarterbacks on the active roster. This approach provides depth, practice leadership, and strategic flexibility during a long season. Veteran Easton Stick adds experience, having previously worked with Steichen, which can be valuable in the quarterback room and on the practice field. The system also allows Leonard to develop while keeping Jones as the established starter.

Prediction: Jones, Leonard, Stick

Our projection puts Daniel Jones, Riley Leonard, and Easton Stick as the three quarterbacks on the Colts’ 53‑man roster. Even though Chris Ballard is reluctant to move Richardson, the free‑agent clock will force the Colts to decide soon, as he’ll hit the market next offseason with nothing to show for his tenure if a trade isn’t struck. Keeping a third veteran quarterback like Stick gives the staff insurance and mentorship opportunities. The Colts will likely stick with the three‑QB formula that has served them well under Steichen’s tenure.