You’ve probably heard the phrase “The Indianapolis Colts will bring in competition for Anthony Richardson” nearly a million times. That new quarterback could be Justin Fields.
Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated believes Fields would be a “perfect fit” for the Colts. Fields hasn’t lived up to his first-round draft stock, but he’s a talented youngster with dual-threat abilities,” wrote Verderame. “In other words, the perfect fit for coach Shane Steichen. If the Colts are serious about opening up a full-blown quarterback competition this summer with Anthony Richardson, adding Fields would be a good way to do that without breaking the bank.”
Justin Fields is a free agent this offseason. It’s unclear which team he’ll end up signing with. He’d be a great bridge quarterback for the New York Jets. Fields would also be a nice fit for several other teams. The Colts, though, need to pursue the former Ohio State star.
Signing Quarterback Justin Fields Makes a Lot of Sense for the Indianapolis Colts
His Career in Chicago and Pittsburgh
The Chicago Bears selected Justin Fields 11th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. He started 10 contests as a rookie, throwing for 1,870 yards and seven touchdowns. He also rushed for 420 yards and two touchdowns.
In 2022, Fields passed for 2,242 yards and 17 touchdowns. He also had 1,143 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. Fields joined Michael Vick and Lamar Jackson as the only quarterbacks in league history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season.
Justin Fields threw for 2,562 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2023. He produced 657 rushing yards and four touchdowns as well.
Chicago landed the first overall pick in the 2024 draft and selected quarterback Caleb Williams. The move prompted the team to trade Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers in March 2024.
Fields began the 2024 season as the Steelers’ starting quarterback. He posted a 4-2 record before being replaced by Russell Wilson for the remainder of the season. Fields threw for 1,106 yards and five touchdowns last season.
Why the Colts Should Sign Him
When the Colts drafted Anthony Richardson fourth overall in 2023, they figured they had finally landed their franchise quarterback.
However, Richardson hasn’t had a superstar career just yet. The former Florida Gator has missed several games due to injury and has struggled as a passer. He completed only 47.7 percent of his passes in 2024.
Richardson still has the potential to be a star. The 22-year-old needs someone to push him. And Justin Fields is that guy. The 6-foot-3, 227-pounder is one of the NFL’s most dynamic athletes. He’s a dual-threat playmaker, possessing natural arm talent, and can “wow” you with his running ability.
Fields could possibly dethrone Richardson as the Colts’ starter. If not, he would serve as an excellent backup. Fields’ playing style is very similar to Richardson’s. That means Indianapolis wouldn’t have to change the playbook much if they switched from Richardson to Fields.
The Colts have been linked to quarterback Sam Darnold, but that wouldn’t be a wise move for the team. Darnold would be the starter, eliminating a competition for Richardson. Instead, the Colts need to sign Fields, who can actually provide good competition.
Main Image: Tommy Gilligan – USA Today Sports