Home / Sports / Colts QBs: Jones' Resurgence, Rivers' Return, Leonard's Debut
Colts QBs: Jones' Resurgence, Rivers' Return, Leonard's Debut
15 Feb
Summary
- Daniel Jones revived his career before an Achilles injury, showing impressive stats.
- Philip Rivers, 44, ended a five-year retirement to start three games.
- Rookie Riley Leonard impressed in his first start against a tough Texans defense.
The Indianapolis Colts experienced a dramatic 2025 season, marked by a significant quarterback transition. Daniel Jones resurrected his career in the first 10 weeks, showcasing dynamic play that fit Shane Steichen's offense and contributing to the Colts' strong start. Before suffering a season-ending Achilles injury, Jones achieved career bests with a 68.0% completion rate, 3,101 passing yards, and 19 passing touchdowns, alongside five rushing scores.
Following Jones' injury, with the team at an 8-5 record and playoff aspirations intact, the Colts turned to an unexpected solution: 44-year-old Philip Rivers. Coming out of a five-year retirement, Rivers started three games, proving capable of dissecting defenses at the line of scrimmage despite limited arm talent. He concluded his brief return with 544 passing yards and four touchdowns.
As the Colts fell out of playoff contention, rookie Riley Leonard was given a starting opportunity in the season finale against the Houston Texans. Despite facing a formidable defense, Leonard delivered an impressive performance, completing 21 of 34 passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns, adding another rushing score. This outing likely cemented his position as the Colts' QB2 for the future.
