The Colts kick off their preseason schedule in a matter of hours.
Before Indianapolis takes the field in Baltimore for their preseason opener against the Ravens, they have a plethora of questions they must get answers to during this warm-up period before games begin to matter.
CBS Sports’s Cody Benjamin named the Colts among one of eight teams who need preseason the most, citing quarterback uncertainty and defensive injuries as the main reasons why.
Benjamin posed three important questions: Can Anthony Richardson stay upright and showcase improved accuracy as a passer for coach Shane Steichen, reclaiming his job as the top quarterback? Can Daniel Jones earn a new lease on a first-team gig by outdoing Richardson as a more efficient operator of the preseason offense? How will new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo sort out a secondary currently battling injuries to Charvarius Ward, Jaylon Jones and JuJu Brents?
So far in training camp, Richardson has shown significant improvement with his accuracy, especially in the short areas of the field where he struggled in 2024. But the practice field is a much different environment than a game. Richardson has to show he can translate his behind-the-scenes work into success on the gridiron.
As for Daniel Jones, he’s done exactly what he came to Indianapolis to do— compete. While Richardson will be the starter Thursday night, Jones will see action before getting the start against Green Bay Aug. 16.
If Jones can be more efficient when it’s all said and done, he could edge out Richardson for the opening day start against the Dolphins.
Defensively, Anarumo has his work cut out for him in the secondary. Ward has returned to practice, but rookie Justin Walley has now been sidelined with a knee injury, meaning this preseason will be vital, especially if Brents, Jones and Justin Walley remain sidelined for a prolonged period.
If so, Anarumo needs to identify the right depth pieces who can fill in alongside while his preferred choices work their way back.