NFL Analysts Suggest Colts May Turn to Rookie QB Riley Leonard in 2025
Indianapolis, IN — The winds of change may soon be blowing through Lucas Oil Stadium, as NFL analysts are increasingly speculating that the Indianapolis Colts could turn to rookie quarterback Riley Leonard as their starter during the 2025 season. The former Duke standout was selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft and has quickly turned heads with his combination of athleticism, poise, and leadership.
A New Era in Indianapolis?
After a rollercoaster 2024 season marked by inconsistent quarterback play and lingering injuries to Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ front office knew they needed to solidify the most important position on the field. While Richardson remains a promising talent, durability concerns and decision-making struggles have cast doubts over his long-term reliability.
Enter Riley Leonard—a dual-threat quarterback known for his toughness, accuracy, and surprising mobility. During his time at Duke, Leonard displayed an uncanny ability to read defenses and extend plays, earning comparisons to quarterbacks like Ryan Tannehill and even flashes of Josh Allen-lite potential.
Training Camp Buzz
Reports out of rookie minicamp and OTAs suggest Leonard is already earning the respect of coaches and veterans alike. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter has praised the rookie’s “football IQ and calm demeanor,” noting that he’s picking up the playbook faster than expected.
“Riley has that quiet confidence you want in a quarterback,” said Cooter. “He’s not flashy, but he’s incredibly effective. He processes reads quickly and throws a very catchable ball.”
Veteran wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. echoed those sentiments, saying, “The kid can play. He’s not afraid to step in the huddle and take control. You don’t see that every day from a rookie.”
A Strategic Shift?
Head coach Shane Steichen has remained non-committal when asked about the starting quarterback competition, but his recent comments have only fueled speculation.
“We’re going to put the best 11 guys on the field—whoever gives us the best chance to win,” Steichen told reporters. “Riley’s doing everything we ask of him and then some.”
If Leonard continues to impress through training camp and the preseason, don’t be surprised if the Colts begin the 2025 campaign with a new face under center.
High-Risk, High-Reward
The decision to start a rookie quarterback always carries risks, especially in a division that features rising defensive stars and established rival QBs like Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Stroud. But with a retooled offensive line, a strong running game led by Jonathan Taylor, and a dynamic group of receivers, the Colts could be poised for a leap forward—if Leonard can handle the pressure.
Fans in Indianapolis are cautiously optimistic, hoping Leonard can be the long-term solution the franchise has sought since the retirement of Andrew Luck. While it’s too early to crown him the next great Colts quarterback, all signs point to an intriguing quarterback battle brewing in the heartland.
One thing is clear: the Riley Leonard era may be arriving sooner than anyone expected.
