The Indianapolis Colts brought in quarterback Daniel Jones to rival former No. 4 pick Anthony Richardson. Still, chances are the organization doesn’t want the former New York Giants starter to outperform him.
The Colts are likely remaining hopeful that Richardson will evolve into the face of their franchise, despite two years filled with poor production and injuries. He recorded 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 11 appearances last season.
Let’s assume 2025 holds a similar fate for Richardson. Indianapolis’ front office may have no choice but to move on, potentially to a quarterback with strong ties to the Colts.
Colts Predicted To Land Arch Manning in 2026 NFL Draft
Most agree Peyton Manning is the greatest quarterback in Colts history, so why not try their luck on another member of the Manning family?
Peyton’s nephew, Arch, is gearing up for his junior season with the Texas Longhorns, where he will have a chance to shine as their starter before likely entering the 2026 NFL Draft. The 33rd Team’s Kyle Crabbs predicts the Colts will select Manning with the No. 8 pick in next year’s draft, signaling the organization is giving up on Richardson.
“Print the jerseys. Go ahead! The Colts are entering 2025 with what has been described as an open competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones at quarterback,” Crabbs wrote.
“Richardson will need a big year to take the pressure and negative perception off his status with the team. Jim Irsay would not be mad about landing (another) Manning.”
The Longhorns quarterback would certainly be entering a nice situation if chosen by Indianapolis. Their offense features a solid offensive line, running back Jonathan Taylor, wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and rookie tight end Tyler Warren. Despite most of that solid supporting cast being present last season, Richardson slotted as the No. 37 QB in PFSN’s QB+ metric.
No one is entirely sure how serious of a prospect Manning is because he’s yet to have a true shot at proving himself, but the odds he thrives at Texas are in his favor. He is the nephew of two NFL legends at the quarterback position and also possesses a running ability that neither of his uncles did.
Alternatively, PFSN’s 2026 mock draft sees Manning go to the New Orleans Saints at No. 3.
“The New Orleans Saints drafted Tyler Shough in Round 2 this year, but the idea of a Manning leading the offense in New Orleans feels right,” PFSN’s Jacob Infante wrote.
If Richardson fails to meet expectations in his third NFL campaign, then using a high pick on someone with roots in Indianapolis is an appealing backup plan.