Mandatory minicamp will take place for the Indianapolis Colts from June 9-11. This is often the last big milestone in the NFL offseason calendar before training camp arrives in late July.
Through the first two weeks of OTA practices, we’ve gained some valuable insights into where things stand on the depth chart, along with who may be standing out early on, but questions at each position group remain, and that’s normal at this time of the year. It won’t be until training camp and the preseason take place that playing time and final roster decisions are made.
So as part of our Colts’ minicamp preview, let’s highlight the one big question facing each position group, starting with the quarterbacks.
Who will be the Colts’ backup quarterback? Anthony Richardson or Riley Leonard?
As long as Richardson is on the team, he and Leonard will be competing for the backup role. Despite not knowing exactly what Richardson’s future with the Colts looks like, Steichen wants to give him the opportunity to compete for the backup role — “you never know,” as he said.
Shane Steichen has said that at this stage of the offseason, no one has the lead, and a winner of this competition won’t be determined until the summer plays out.
Richardson and Leonard will split reps, and both will get opportunities with the first-team offense while Jones is still on the sidelines during the 11-on-11 periods of practice.
Although Richardson’s trade request is still on the table, that’s not where his attention lies at this time. He’s focused on being with the Colts.
Leonard, meanwhile, showcased in Week 18 last season against a very good Houston defense that he is more than ready to compete for the backup role. As a result of that performance, along with what the Colts have seen from Leonard since drafting him, they remain bullish about his potential.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Big question facing Colts’ QB position heading into minicamp
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
