The Indianapolis Colts are riding high as we near the halfway point of the 2025 NFL season. Quarterback Daniel Jones is a big reason why the team is sitting at 7-1, perched atop the AFC standings. The defense is playing good enough to support the high-scoring offense. But it's what has happened to the defense that any Colts fan will tell you is their biggest QB concern.
That concern is Daniel Jones' history of injuries. This is what makes the Colts' quarterback situation a precarious one. I know, I know, fans of the Harry Potter series will tell you this is the same as using the actual name of "he who shall not be named." But let's face it, I'm simply writing what many fans of the Horseshoe have already thought.
Riley Leonard was drafted by Indianapolis in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL draft, with the plan for him to learn from DJ and Anthony Richardson, Sr. Leonard has seen minimal game action and has yet to throw a pass in a regular season game. Plus, it would be best for him not to be forced into game action so he can naturally develop as an NFL quarterback.
A serviceable backup quarterback would allow Colts' Riley Leonard to continue his development
Add to the equation the fact that AR was injured in a pre-game, non-contact fashion, and it's easy to see just how fragile the QB situation is in Indy. There are some options the Colts could look to in a trade scenario or free agent signing to allow the magical ride to continue.
One name that comes to mind is New York Giants third-stringer Jameis Winston. As Winston has served as a starter with Tampa Bay and New Orleans, he knows what it takes to lead an NFL offense. He is on a two-year deal with the Giants, so the asking price should be a mid-round draft pick at worst.
Another option would be former Colt Sam Ehlinger, currently with the Denver Broncos. Ehlinger would bring his prior experience with head coach Shane Steichen with him, and this gives him an advantage over other trade targets. Remember, Indianapolis wouldn't be looking for its next franchise QB, so a serviceable option like Ehlinger could make sense.
Indianapolis could also look to sign a couple of free agents to fill the need. Both Taylor Heinicke and Desmond Ridder would be inexpensive options for the Colts to turn to. Ridder was the quarterback at the University of Cincinnati with current Indy receiver Alec Pierce. Having chemistry with the Colts' main deep-ball threat is a plus.
While nobody wants to see Daniel Jones get injured, Indianapolis would be wise to sign a backup quarterback soon. It is better to be proactive than reactive, and having time to learn the offensive playbook "just in case" would make the situation less volatile.