Quarterback Sam Darnold #14 of the Minnesota Vikings
Could the Colts Shake Up Their QB Room with a Major Signing?
The Indianapolis Colts are at a pivotal moment in their quarterback development. While Anthony Richardson remains the presumed starter, there’s a clear need for competition in the QB room. Veteran Joe Flacco is set to test free agency, and while Sam Ehlinger has been a valuable mentor, he’s not a legitimate starting option and is also a free agent.
With that in mind, Indianapolis could look to bring in an external option to push Richardson and provide stability. Some names that have been floated include Daniel Jones, Trey Lance, and Justin Fields, but one quarterback would demand more money than all of them: Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings.
Is Sam Darnold a Fit for Indy?
Darnold is coming off a career year with the Vikings, throwing for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 12 interceptions while completing 66.2 percent of his passes. He also earned his first Pro Bowl nomination. Playing with a talented receiving corps that included Justin Jefferson, Darnold finally showcased the potential that made him a top draft pick back in 2018.
However, signing Darnold would come at a steep price. According to Spotrac, his market value sits at $40.1 million annually. That’s a massive investment, especially for a team that still wants to see what it has in Richardson before making any drastic moves.
Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News recently weighed in on the situation, suggesting that adding Darnold would force Richardson to elevate his game.
“The Colts have ample cap space (more than $35 million) and remain lukewarm on Anthony Richardson under offensive-minded Shane Steichen,” Iyer wrote. “Darnold can win the job there with his downfield pocket passing and provide a real bridge compared to free-agent backup Joe Flacco.”
Why the Colts Should Stick with Richardson
While signing Darnold would certainly create an interesting dynamic, it seems unlikely. The Colts are still invested in Richardson despite his struggles in 2024. The young quarterback has immense physical tools but remains raw, having played very little football at both the collegiate and professional levels.
There are two major reasons Indianapolis should ride this out with Richardson:
- Development Takes Time – Richardson needs reps and patience to grow into the franchise quarterback the Colts envisioned when they selected him fourth overall in 2023.
- Financial Constraints – Committing $40 million to a quarterback after just two seasons of Richardson would be an overreaction, especially considering the team’s other needs.
Instead of pursuing Darnold, the Colts should consider a more cost-effective veteran who can push Richardson without expecting to be the immediate starter. A move like that would create healthy competition without jeopardizing the development of their young signal-caller.
The Pressure is On
The 2025 season will be make-or-break for Richardson. If he doesn’t take a significant step forward, the Colts may have no choice but to look elsewhere. But pulling the plug too soon could be a costly mistake, especially with the long-term implications of signing a quarterback like Darnold.
This upcoming campaign will not only define Richardson’s future but could also determine the fate of general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen. If Richardson struggles and the Colts miss the playoffs again, sweeping changes could be on the horizon.
For now, Indianapolis appears committed to giving Richardson every chance to succeed. Whether or not he seizes the opportunity remains to be seen.
