Colts Fan: Swapping Jones for Richardson Ignores Front Office Errors

Jake Query, host of the Query & Company podcast, argued on Tuesday that replacing Daniel Jones with Anthony Richardson Sr. would not correct the Indianapolis Colts' fundamental issues. Query stated that the team's current problems stem from front office decisions made over the past 18 months rather than the performance of the current starting quarterback.

Query addressed the debate surrounding Jones' status following a torn Achilles injury. While acknowledging that Jones may not be at full strength in the pocket, Query noted that his current struggles mirror his performance in New York. Query described Jones' previous hot start as a fleeting high, comparing it to a dream where a player hits every shot at a basketball tryout before the reality sets in.

The host emphasized that turnovers have become Jones' defining trait. Query stated that head coach Shane Steichen cannot justify benching Richardson solely to protect the football, as the current situation does not reflect better ball security. Query said, “You’re not taking care of the football,” indicating that the issue extends beyond the player currently under center.

Query identified the front office as the primary source of the team's decline. He claimed that for the last year to year and a half, the organization has made incorrect choices regarding players, contracts, and future plans. Specifically, Query cited the selection of Laiatu Latu, the acquisition of Tyler Warren, and the trade of two first-round picks and a receiver for Sauce Gardner as examples of these missteps.

Steichen told reporters after the recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings that he has not considered changing the quarterback situation. The coach said he has “a ton of faith” in Jones. Query countered that starting Richardson immediately would not undo the prior errors in roster construction.

The Colts lost to the Vikings in a Week 7 matchup. Query mentioned driving to Michigan after the game to see the BoDeans, where their song “Good Things” stuck in his mind. He pictured Richardson on the sideline singing the chorus to Steichen, urging the coach not to pass him over.