In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, the Indianapolis Colts have officially named Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, edging out second-year QB Anthony Richardson and veteran Gardner Minshew in a highly scrutinized quarterback competition.
The announcement came Thursday morning following an intense offseason of speculation. Colts head coach Shane Steichen addressed the media shortly after the decision was made public.
“Joe gives us the best chance to win right now,” Steichen said. “His experience, leadership, and command of the offense have stood out since the moment he walked into our building. We’re confident in what he brings to the table.”
A Shocking Twist
Flacco, 40, signed with Indianapolis this offseason after a late-career resurgence with the Cleveland Browns, where he led them to a playoff berth in 2023 and earned Comeback Player of the Year honors. Many believed he was brought in to serve as a mentor for Richardson, who showed promise before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury early in his rookie campaign.
But after an impressive spring and a flawless grasp of Steichen’s playbook, Flacco has leapfrogged both Richardson and Minshew on the depth chart.
Sources close to the team say Richardson is still viewed as the long-term future of the franchise, but the Colts are opting for patience after seeing signs of hesitation and rust in his limited spring reps.
“Anthony is progressing well, but we’re not going to rush him,” Steichen added. “He’s still part of our plan he just needs time.”
Fans React
The decision has divided Colts Nation.
Some applaud the team’s win-now mindset with a proven veteran at the helm, especially after finishing 9–8 last season and narrowly missing the playoffs. Others believe starting Flacco delays Richardson’s development and sends mixed signals about the franchise’s direction.
Social media quickly erupted following the news, with some fans calling the decision “gutless,” while others labeled it a “masterstroke.”
What’s Next?
Flacco is expected to take the majority of first-team reps in training camp and will likely start the preseason opener. Richardson, meanwhile, will reportedly continue to receive specialized coaching as the Colts prioritize his long-term health and readiness.
This surprise move could have major implications not only for the Colts’ playoff hopes but also for the future trajectory of their young quarterback investment.
One thing is clear, the Colts are betting on experience over potential for now.
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