On the latest episode of the Locked On Colts Squad show, Derek, Allen, Jake, and Zach break down the Indianapolis Colts' quarterback situation for the 2026 season.
On the latest episode of the Locked On Colts squad show on the Locked On Podcast network, hosts Derek Schultz, Allen Pinkett, Jake Arthur, and Zach Hicks run through the Indianapolis Colts' quarterback situation for 2026.
Starter Daniel Jones seemed to finally offer the Colts' quarterback situation some stability — getting off to an 8-2 start — until consecutive fibula and Achilles injuries derailed his (and the Colts') season, losing the final seven games of the season and finishing 8-9, without a playoff berth for the fifth consecutive season.
From the way the Colts are speaking, it seems a foregone conclusion that they will try to re-sign Jones in free agency this offseason, as their 2026 plans revolve around him. Jones also wants to be back, but what will the price be? Will he miss any time recovering from his Achilles injury? Do the Colts need Jones more than he needs them?
Part of what makes Jones' return to Indy so likely is the lack of free-agent options at quarterback. Plus, the Colts don't have a first-round pick to use on a quarterback.
On Monday, owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon told the media that the pressure to perform and win has never been higher for general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen, which almost certainly means they can't afford to hit the reset button at quarterback. Jobs are likely at risk in 2026.
As for the Colts' backup situation, currently, it's rookie sixth-round pick Riley Leonard versus Anthony Richardson Sr. However, will Richardson even be around the Colts organization in 2026? The squad discusses the most likely outcome of the Colts-Richardson relationship.
When it comes to Leonard, he has played extensively in two games and has shown what the squad feels is enough to be the Colts' QB2 in 2026.
The squad wraps up the show by discussing a letter to fans penned by Colts owners Irsay-Gordon, Kalen Jackson, and Casey Irsay-Foyt. What can be taken from the message between the letter and Irsay-Gordon's press conference on Monday?
You can find the audio version of this episode by clicking here, or following below on YouTube:
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Jake Arthur has been covering the Indianapolis Colts for over a dozen years and is a member of the PFWA. He's one half of the Locked On Colts podcast and has worked for the Colts' official website, On SI, and more. You can follow him on X @JakeArthurNFL.