Colts coach Steichen opens door for quarterback change after 42-7 loss

The Indianapolis Colts will review their entire roster, including the quarterback position, following a 42-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Head coach Shane Steichen told reporters on Sunday that he intends to assess every position going forward. He was asked directly if Daniel Jones would remain the starter. Steichen did not rule out a change. Jones completed 19 of 28 passes for 144 yards, threw two interceptions, and scored one touchdown. He was replaced with 11 minutes and 53 seconds left in the game. Backup Anthony Richardson Sr. finished the game and completed both of his pass attempts for eight yards.

This marks a shift in tone for Steichen. In previous weeks, the coach firmly defended Jones. After a loss to Minnesota last week, Steichen stated that Jones was the starter unless the team notified the media otherwise. Jones signed with Indianapolis in the spring to serve as the primary quarterback after recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon in the prior season. His current season statistics show a quarterback rating of 39.5 and a completion percentage of 60.4, both career lows.

Jones remains under contract for the next season. However, the deal includes guarantees that would allow the team to release him if they choose. The franchise has already undergone major personnel changes this season. General Manager Chris Ballard was fired, and the team traded defensive stars Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner in the last two weeks. Rumors also surround running back Jonathan Taylor, who is expected to be a trade candidate before the next week's deadline.

Taylor played in Sunday's defeat but had only eight carries. That is his lowest carry total since October 15, 2023. Steichen said the lower number of touches was due to the lopsided score, not a strategic shift. He noted that the team did not have a specific number in mind for Taylor's carries. The coaching staff also substituted backup running back Seth McGowan more frequently than usual during the first half.

Jones acknowledged the team's poor performance in his postgame comments. He said he is part of the group that needs to improve day after day. Taylor described the loss as an embarrassing outcome. He stated that his performance was not up to par and that he is responsible for the result.