As the Colts watch other teams play for Super Bowl yet again, it’s time to start looking ahead to the 2025 roster. The Colts finalized a contract with new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, and while he was not my first choice, it was a solid decision. My choice was Dennis Allen, but it appears he is headed for Chicago to join forces with Ben Johnson and his inaugural season.
We have identified four main areas of need. While tight end is the main need, they will most likely entertain that in the draft, as the top tight end talent is deep. The four spots can always be filled in the draft, but some free agency moves will be necessary.
Backup Quarterback
One could argue this roster spot is the singular most important, as 2025 will be a “playoffs or bust” type of season. Two of the biggest criticisms of Richardson have been his availability and growth. Both reasons for the franchise to look for stability in this position. You will either need competition or security for Richardson. I am in the camp of competition and really challenging Richardson to not only be better but consistently better.
Joe Flacco is not expected to return next season, and Sam Ehlinger is also an upcoming free agent. Whether Ehlinger comes back is up in the air, but keeping him seems logical. It allows a consistent voice to Richardson, and then make the backup one of competition.
Steelers QB/Justin Fields
The pipe dream that all Colts have been dreaming of for the upcoming season is poaching Fields from the Steelers. I do believe this is an unrealistic option, but it’s rumored that Chris Ballard has been enamored with him since he was drafted. Fields has been both a starter and backup with Chicago and, most recently, Pittsburgh. He is the top QB on the market at this very moment. More will emerge, but if you want to truly get Richardson some real competition, Fields is the best option.
Patriots QB/Jacoby Brissett
Not my favorite choice but for the sake of content, it just makes too much sense. Brissett returned to New England last season and was the starter to begin the season. He relinquished that title to the now permanent franchise quarterback Drake Maye. New England brought in Mike Vrabel as their new head coach and completely new staff as well. Could Brissett return? Sure, but new voices could swing him elsewhere.
Brissett was part of the rotation of the band-aid rotation of quarterbacks that Ballard implemented after the sudden retirement of Andrew Luck. Brissett started 30 games from 2017-2020. Brissett can offer some competition but also a strong voice to help Richardson in his development. Brissett is a grinder and if there are truly work ethic problems, Brissett could be someone to lean on to help change his ways.