Anthony Richardson was supposed to be the future of the franchise for the Indianapolis Colts. Instead, he has struggled throughout his two seasons in Indianapolis. Despite his obvious athleticism and potential, he has failed to be accurate and consistent enough to truly be the Colts' QB1.
Now, it's not over for Richardson yet; if he proves himself in 2025, that would be the best case scenario, both for him and the Colts. But as time goes on, that seems less and less likely, meaning the Colts will need to look elsewhere for someone to lead the team. There is Daniel Jones, of course, but he only has a one-year deal, and unless he becomes a much better quarterback overnight, he'll likely never be anything more than just serviceable. And the Colts need someone to be a real playmaker, who can not just execute the offense, but elevate it.
Analysts have been pointing towards 2026 for a while, but a way-too-early mock draft from Matt Miller at ESPN has a suggestion. Miller evidently sees the Colts doing worse in 2025 than they did in 2024, with Indianapolis coming in at #11. And with that pick, Miller thinks they should take LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
"Anthony Richardson's injuries and lack of development led to the Colts signing Daniel Jones this offseason. Barring major improvement from Richardson (or a breakthrough by Jones), Indianapolis will be in search of a quarterback. Nussmeier showed flashes in his first season as a starter, throwing for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. The son of Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, Garrett plays with fire and energy and isn't afraid to take chances. If he cuts down on his interceptions, Nussmeier has the velocity, accuracy and playmaking ability to move up draft boards."Matt Miller
Nussmeier could be a good option for the Colts if they find themselves in need of a quarterback at the end of the 2025 season, but that also raises another issue. Arch Manning's draft declaration is imminent; if it's not in 2026, then it will be in 2027, and would Indy really want to pass on the chance to get another Manning?