Colts pre-training camp 53-man roster prediction: Quarterbacks

Paul Bretl, Colts WireSat, Jul 11, 2026·2 min read

With training camp drawing closer for the Indianapolis Colts, we typically put together a 53-man roster prediction based on what we learned during offseason programs.

We will still be doing that, but the format will be different. Rather than cramming every position group into one article, we'll devote an entire article to one unit before compiling our predictions at the end.

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So let's begin with the quarterbacks.

• Roster locks: Daniel Jones, Riley Leonard

  We know that these two will be on the team. The one question is whether or not Leonard is the backup, as he competes with Richardson for that role, but regardless of that outcome, we can anticipate him being on the team.

  Does Anthony Richardson get traded?

  Unable to find a trade partner, Richardson remains with the team and is competing for the backup quarterback role. That said, as far as we know, his trade request is still on the table, and there is a "soft deadline" approaching that could help faciliate a deal.

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  According to The Athletic's James Boyd, Richardson is due a $4.2 million roster bonus. If Richardson remains on the team up to that point and the Colts pay that bonus, any team could then acquire Richardson and only owe him $1.1 million for the 2026 season.

  This could make acquiring him more appealing, helping to push a deal across the finish line.

  How many quarterbacks will the Colts roster?

  For what it's worth, under Shane Steichen, the Colts have kept three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.

  Colts 53-man roster prediction at quarterback

  Daniel Jones, Riley Leonard, Easton Stick

  For now, I'll still predict that Richardson ends up getting traded, leaving Leonard to be the backup. It's a fine line to walk, with Chris Ballard not wanting to give Richardson away, but next offseason, he's a free agent, and if a trade isn't made, he'll leave with the Colts getting nothing in return.

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  I also think the Colts keep three quarterbacks, given Steichen's history, but also, Stick is a veteran and has past experience working with Steichen, which could be valuable to have in the quarterback room and on the practice field, especially as Leonard continues to develop.

  This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts pre-training camp 53-man roster prediction: Quarterbacks

  Colts' quarterbacks on the roster