Posted on Dec 30

Colts to start rookie Leonard at QB, replacing Rivers after playoff elimination

Posted Dec 30, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts are turning to rookie quarterback Riley Leonard as their new starter following a disappointing season and the injury of Daniel Jones.

Why it matters: This transition marks a significant shift for a Colts team that has struggled with consistency at the quarterback position.

The Colts are now eliminated from playoff contention, prompting a focus on developing young talent rather than relying on veteran leadership.
Leonard's first start against the Houston Texans represents an opportunity for the franchise to assess its future direction.

What’s new: Philip Rivers, who briefly came out of retirement to fill in for the injured Jones, will not continue as the starter.

Rivers, 44, threw for 544 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions over three games, but his time with the team was marred by an 0-3 record.
Coach Shane Steichen acknowledged Rivers' desire to play, highlighting the challenges posed by the Colts' current situation.

By the numbers: Leonard's debut comes after a turbulent season for the Colts.

The team has cycled through multiple quarterbacks due to injuries; Anthony Richardson, their first-round pick, is currently on injured reserve recovering from an orbital fracture.
Rivers' completion percentage of 63% indicates some effectiveness, but ultimately, the Colts needed more wins as evidenced by their inability to secure victories with him under center.

What to watch: Leonard’s development will be pivotal for the Colts moving forward.

Steichen emphasized the importance of starting Leonard: "The prospect of Leonard starting on Sunday... will be good for his development."
His performance against the Texans' defense will provide insight into how well he can manage the pressures of an NFL game.

The bottom line: As they pivot toward the future, the Colts are banking on Leonard to emerge as a cornerstone of their offense.

While the immediate results may not yield victories, fostering young talent will be essential for the long-term health of the franchise.
With the Colts seeking stability, all eyes will be on Leonard as he steps into the spotlight for his first career start.

Colts to start rookie Leonard at QB, replacing Rivers after playoff elimination

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 30, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts are turning to rookie quarterback Riley Leonard as their new starter following a disappointing season and the injury of Daniel Jones.

Why it matters: This transition marks a significant shift for a Colts team that has struggled with consistency at the quarterback position.

The Colts are now eliminated from playoff contention, prompting a focus on developing young talent rather than relying on veteran leadership.

Leonard's first start against the Houston Texans represents an opportunity for the franchise to assess its future direction.

What’s new: Philip Rivers, who briefly came out of retirement to fill in for the injured Jones, will not continue as the starter.

Rivers, 44, threw for 544 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions over three games, but his time with the team was marred by an 0-3 record.

Coach Shane Steichen acknowledged Rivers' desire to play, highlighting the challenges posed by the Colts' current situation.

By the numbers: Leonard's debut comes after a turbulent season for the Colts.

The team has cycled through multiple quarterbacks due to injuries; Anthony Richardson, their first-round pick, is currently on injured reserve recovering from an orbital fracture.

Rivers' completion percentage of 63% indicates some effectiveness, but ultimately, the Colts needed more wins as evidenced by their inability to secure victories with him under center.

What to watch: Leonard’s development will be pivotal for the Colts moving forward.

Steichen emphasized the importance of starting Leonard: "The prospect of Leonard starting on Sunday... will be good for his development."

His performance against the Texans' defense will provide insight into how well he can manage the pressures of an NFL game.

The bottom line: As they pivot toward the future, the Colts are banking on Leonard to emerge as a cornerstone of their offense.

While the immediate results may not yield victories, fostering young talent will be essential for the long-term health of the franchise.

With the Colts seeking stability, all eyes will be on Leonard as he steps into the spotlight for his first career start.