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Colts Forced to Make Surprising Quarterback Decision Ahead of Game vs. Cardinals
The Colts were forced into making a noteworthy move at quarterback ahead of their Week 6 contest against the Arizona Cardinals.
While Daniel Jones—a fringe NFL MVP candidate through five weeks—will remain Indianapolis' starting signal-caller, rookie Riley Leonard will be the team's backup on Sunday afternoon. Former No. 4 pick Anthony Richardson, meanwhile, is inactive—serving as the emergency third QB.
MORE. 2025 NFL Starting QBs. Updated List of All 32 NFL Starting Quarterbacks. dark
According to multiple reports, Richardson is not a healthy scratch, but rather suffered an eye injury using bands during pregame warmups.
Leonard was drafted by the Colts out of Notre Dame in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL draft. He put together an impressive preseason finale for Indy, going 15-for-20 passing for 189 yards and a touchdown, and will now suit up on Sunday afternoon against the Cardinals.
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Mike Kadlick is a contributor to the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated. Before joining SI in November 2024, he covered the New England Patriots for WEEI sports radio in Boston and continues to do so for CLNS Media. He has a master's in public relations from Boston University. Kadlick is also an avid runner and a proud lover of all things pizza.