How Things Can Go Horribly Wrong for Colts' Anthony Richardson

McKenna continues.

"Indy could talk itself into extending Jones to a long-term deal similar to Baker Mayfield's (three years, $100 million). That would be a mistake. And it would also set back the organization — just like the Giants’ long-term deal with Jones did. If Jones plays well, the Colts might pursue the mirage."

The last thing Richardson's future as the starter can afford is for Jones to excel and supplant him as the leader. Jones selected the Colts because he legitimately believed this was the best destination for him to revive his career after spending the rest of 2024 with the Minnesota Vikings after the Giants cut ties with him.

Richardson already looked like a project quarterback in year two after appearing better in his rookie year, and hasn't been able to soak up many valuable reps during the offseason due to more shoulder issues in his throwing arm. This has put him behind Jones, and Richardson is currently the QB2.

As McKenna mentions, if Richardson can't elevate and have a career resurgence, the experiment in Indianapolis is likely to be over. This would be devastating, since it puts Indianapolis right back into their quarterback issue they've had for years.

Even if Jones wins and looks great, it's hard to tell what the plan is next for the franchise at the NFL's most important position. The most likely route the Colts would take is rolling with Jones for the near future while figuring out what to do with Richardson.

Richardson is the preferred option without question. If this happens, then Indianapolis may have no other choice but to roll with Jones until they figure out a legitimate long-term solution in the upcoming NFL drafts. Or, if Jones plays out of his mind, he's still young enough to be with the Colts and potentially lead the team for a few years, at least.

As has been laid out, the Colts are in a tough spot. The team's success is likely tied to how the next field general plays and if they can get their career back on track for an incredibly important season for the Colts.

It's not a horrible occurrence if Jones wins the position, but it casts a massive shadow of doubt on Richardson's future with the team and makes the Colts look foolish for taking a massive swing on a quarterback who looked raw coming into the NFL.