Anthony Richardson is considered the Colts’ presumed starter for the 2025 season

Helping matters is that Richardson will actually have a full offseason in 2025. Last year, after surgery to repair significant AC joint damage, much of the focus was simply on rehab and being able to throw by training camp.

This time around, the offseason focus will be on further developing his understanding of the game and honing his fundamentals.

While he was at the meetings last season, the best way to learn is as a participant, and that will be Richardson — who is 8-7 as a career starter — in the high season.

It was an up-and-down season for Richardson, who was not only benched but also took himself out for a game needing rest during a game against the Texans. Although it wasn’t the reason he was demoted, it didn’t help matters. And when Indy benched him, it led a chorus of pundits to assume he was a bust.

Still, the Colts didn’t see it that way. They knew he needed a break and needed a wake-up call. They have seen encouraging signs since then and his sense of calm in big moments has been appreciated.

The Colts also feel like they have a better idea of ​​how to use him, and consistency will be paramount. But at least the Colts have no questions about who will be behind center next season.