The best backup quarterback options for the Colts in 2024
The Indianapolis Colts have Anthony Richardson as QB1, but it’s still important to build a quality quarterback room. Here’s how Indy can do that.
The Indianapolis Colts will have some impactful decisions to make this offseason with plenty of money to spend. The Colts will have approximately $70 million to spend on talent during the 2024 offseason. Something Indy will have to devote some of that money to is building a good quarterback room.
While Indianapolis started the season with Anthony Richardson as QB1, he got the injury bug early and eventually had his season end with an AC Joint shoulder injury that ended his season. Richardson is reportedly ahead of schedule and will begin throwing soon and should be ready for most offseason activities.
He will be the unquestioned starter Week 1 of the 2024 season. So, the need to improve the current room would be for a backup quarterback as Sam Ehlinger is expected to return as the developmental thrid quarterback. This is arguably one of the most important decisions of the offseason, as the Colts have gone from a re-build to a contender quicker than we expected. Having a reliable and experienced backup next season will be imperative to the success of Indy if Richardson continues to miss games due to the physical nature of his playing style.
Let’s take a look at some of the best backup quarterback options for Indy.
Colts could re-sign Gardner Minshew
This appears to be unlikely now (especially with his surprise Pro Bowl selection). Gardner Minshew will most likely look to find starter money and the playing time that goes with it. He was serviceable this season for the most part but was spotty and inconsistent at times. He is the ultimate game manager and can obviously win you some football games when his number is called.
If he is willing to return to his previous role of backup, then re-signing him is a no brainer due to his knowledge of the current offensive system but don’t get your hopes up. Like an NFL coach, there’s only 32 starting quarterbacks and the opportunity to get the money and the prestige of it will be too much for Minshew to pass up again.