Anthony Richardson the favorite to win backup QB job after preseason finale

Anthony Richardson lost his starting job last year. It appears he has held onto the backup job this year.

The Colts have not announced who will enter the season as Daniel Jones’ backup, but Richardson outplayed Riley Leonard in the preseason.

Richardson completed 7 of 10 passes for 80 yards in the preseason finale against the Lions on Saturday. He finished the preseason 21-of-33 for 249 yards and an interception.

“I just wanted to go out there and operate the offense and be confident,” Richardson said, via Abby Halpin of the team website. “I was out there with the starters, so I just wanted to go out there and showcase that I could manage the game and be out there and let it rip. I think I did that to a certain extent.”

Leonard was 3-for-7 for 48 yards and an interception against the Lions, finished the preseason 20-of-42 for 199 yards and two interceptions.

The Colts did not throw a touchdown pass in three preseason games.

“I just want to do my best and put my best foot forward,” Richardson said. “I want everyone to win and everybody to reach their goals, dreams and aspirations that they’ve wanted since they were a little kid.”

Richardson, the fourth overall pick in 2023, is entering the final year of his contract.