The Indianapolis Colts made a bold move this offseason by signing former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones to a one-year, $14 million deal. Colts general manager Chris Ballard had previously stated that he intended to create an open competition at quarterback, and this move certainly aligns with that approach.
The signing has divided opinions, with many questioning whether the Colts are losing faith in 2023 first-round pick Anthony Richardson. But according to PFSN’s latest three-round mock draft, the controversy may not end there.
Colts Create Open Competition at Quarterback
Richardson made an electric start to his NFL career, rushing for three touchdowns in his first two games. That included two scores in Week 2, despite exiting in the second quarter due to injury. He missed the following week before returning, only to again leave early in his second start back.
His rookie season ended after fewer than 12 quarters of football. In that limited time, he threw three touchdowns and one interception while adding four rushing scores and three fumbles.
After missing the rest of the 2023 season, Richardson returned as the Colts’ starter in 2024. However, his struggles continued, and controversy arose when he appeared to take himself out of a game due to fatigue. The decision reportedly frustrated some teammates and drew backlash from fans.
Still, the decision to bring in Jones was met with skepticism. His $14 million contract is more than a typical backup earns but falls short of a true starter’s salary. The move has left some Colts fans frustrated with Ballard’s approach.
Last season wasn’t great for Jones, who ranked 32nd in PFSN’s QB+ metric. Richardson fared even worse, ranking 37th, third-lowest among eligible quarterbacks. However, the young quarterback’s raw arm talent still gives Colts fans some hope.
Jones finished the 2024 season with 2,070 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and 265 rushing yards with two scores in 10 games. Richardson, in 11 games, totaled 1,814 passing yards and eight touchdowns while completing less than 50% of his passes. He also added 499 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
But if Ballard truly wants a competition, why stop at two quarterbacks? The latest PFSN mock draft has the Colts potentially adding a third by selecting Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.
PFSN Mock Draft Projects Colts to Select Jalen Milroe
While drafting another quarterback within the first three rounds may seem counterintuitive, it could make sense for Indianapolis. Jones is on a one-year contract, and few expect him to turn that into a long-term stay. If Richardson struggles again in 2025, the team could be back to square one in 2026.
Milroe isn’t considered a top-tier quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he could still add to the competition in Indianapolis. He offers similar playmaking ability with his legs to Richardson, but is seen as a more cautious runner, avoiding contact rather than inviting it.
Jones, once known for his mobility, has suffered multiple season-ending injuries (in 2021 and 2023), limiting his ability to create plays outside the pocket. While his experience gives him an edge over Milroe and Richardson, if Milroe impresses as a passer, he could push for a starting opportunity.
Scouts have pointed to Milroe’s raw but promising skill set:
“Blessed with a cannon of an arm, a muscular build, and tremendous athleticism, Milroe is the perfect proverbial ball of clay. He has all the prerequisites to be a coach’s dream with how impressive his physical tools are. The flashes are there with him on tape, and when he gets the right amount of touch and timing behind his passes, he can make some seriously big plays.”
If the Colts are serious about finding a long-term answer at quarterback, drafting Milroe wouldn’t be the worst decision. His skill set already fits the system designed for Richardson, making him a logical addition to the mix.