Posted on Dec 08

Colts QB Leonard steps in for injured Jones, faces injury concerns post-game

Posted Dec 8, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts are facing a critical juncture in their season following the injury to starting quarterback Daniel Jones, which leaves them with Riley Leonard at the helm.

Why it matters: The injury to Jones not only affects the Colts' immediate prospects but also impacts their long-term strategy as they navigate the remainder of the season and evaluate their quarterback depth.

Leonard, a sixth-round pick from Notre Dame, stepped into the starting role due to Jones's season-ending Achilles tear and completed 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards and one interception in his debut.
With other quarterbacks like Anthony Richardson Sr. on injured reserve and journeyman Brett Rypien potentially moving up from the practice squad, the team's depth is being tested.

What’s new: As the Colts adapt to their changing roster, head coach Shane Steichen remains hopeful about Leonard's ability to lead the team through this challenging period.

"That's the hope. We'll see how it goes," Steichen commented on Leonard's health and performance.
Leonard's first outing was marked by a mixture of promise and growing pains typical for a young quarterback adjusting to the pressures of starting.

Yes, but: While Leonard has shown flashes of potential, replacing an experienced starter like Jones comes with its challenges.

Jones, known for his toughness, is undergoing surgery later this week, leaving a significant leadership void.
Leonard's ability to maintain composure and improve as he gains experience will be crucial for the Colts' success in the coming weeks.

What to watch: The Colts handling of Leonard's progress will be pivotal in determining how they approach their remaining games.

The team must balance the urgency of winning now with the necessity of developing a young quarterback who is still finding his footing in the league.
Additionally, the concussion protocol status of cornerback Charvarius Ward adds another layer of complexity to the Colts' defensive strategy as they prepare for upcoming matchups.

Between the lines: The Colts are navigating a precarious situation that highlights both their talent and vulnerability in key positions.

Ward, who recently expressed concern over his concussion symptoms, represents the physical toll that the game takes on players, especially those returning from multiple injuries.
His third concussion this season raises questions about player safety and the ongoing impact of head injuries in professional football.

The bottom line: As the Colts transition to a new starting quarterback and manage various injuries, the focus will be on resilience and growth amid adversity.

With the right support and development, Riley Leonard could emerge as a formidable leader, but for now, he faces the daunting task of stepping into a role fraught with expectations and challenges.

Colts QB Leonard steps in for injured Jones, faces injury concerns post-game

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 8, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts are facing a critical juncture in their season following the injury to starting quarterback Daniel Jones, which leaves them with Riley Leonard at the helm.

Leonard, a sixth-round pick from Notre Dame, stepped into the starting role due to Jones's season-ending Achilles tear and completed 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards and one interception in his debut.

With other quarterbacks like Anthony Richardson Sr. on injured reserve and journeyman Brett Rypien potentially moving up from the practice squad, the team's depth is being tested.

What’s new: As the Colts adapt to their changing roster, head coach Shane Steichen remains hopeful about Leonard's ability to lead the team through this challenging period.

"That's the hope. We'll see how it goes," Steichen commented on Leonard's health and performance.

Leonard's first outing was marked by a mixture of promise and growing pains typical for a young quarterback adjusting to the pressures of starting.

Yes, but: While Leonard has shown flashes of potential, replacing an experienced starter like Jones comes with its challenges.

Jones, known for his toughness, is undergoing surgery later this week, leaving a significant leadership void.

Leonard's ability to maintain composure and improve as he gains experience will be crucial for the Colts' success in the coming weeks.

What to watch: The Colts handling of Leonard's progress will be pivotal in determining how they approach their remaining games.

The team must balance the urgency of winning now with the necessity of developing a young quarterback who is still finding his footing in the league.

Additionally, the concussion protocol status of cornerback Charvarius Ward adds another layer of complexity to the Colts' defensive strategy as they prepare for upcoming matchups.

Between the lines: The Colts are navigating a precarious situation that highlights both their talent and vulnerability in key positions.

Ward, who recently expressed concern over his concussion symptoms, represents the physical toll that the game takes on players, especially those returning from multiple injuries.

His third concussion this season raises questions about player safety and the ongoing impact of head injuries in professional football.

The bottom line: As the Colts transition to a new starting quarterback and manage various injuries, the focus will be on resilience and growth amid adversity.

With the right support and development, Riley Leonard could emerge as a formidable leader, but for now, he faces the daunting task of stepping into a role fraught with expectations and challenges.