The Colts will start QB Daniel Jones in their season opener against the Dolphins, according to both ESPN and NFL Network. Jones and Richardson seemingly played to a draw this summer, which makes it a bit surprising that Indianapolis isn't giving Richardson the Week 1 nod. We ultimately still expect both guys to start multiple games this season.
Update: “He's the starting QB for the season,” HC Shane Steichen said of Jones on Tuesday. “I don’t want to have a short leash on that.” We still don't think Jones will play well enough to keep Richardson off the field all season, but expect Jones to be under center for a while.
Jones was fine this preseason, completing 17 of 32 passes (53%) for 245 yards (7.7 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs. His 73.2 Pro Football Focus passing grade ranks 12th among 54 QBs with 20+ dropbacks.
We know what Jones is at this point, though. He's accurate enough but has limited arm strength and a conservative style. He'll add some value with his legs but is unlikely to ascend beyond QB2 status.
Jones is only worth rostering in best ball, 2-QB, and superflex leagues.
Jones under center is good news for RB Jonathan Taylor and the Colts' pass catchers. Indianapolis will call pass more with Jones than Richardson, and more of Jones' dropbacks will turn into pass attempts. He's also less of a threat to steal goal-line carries from Taylor.
This news makes Richardson tough to stash outside of 2-QB and superflex leagues -- although he'll still boast top-8 fantasy upside if (when) he hits the field.
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