2025 NFL Season Preview - Indianapolis Colts
Football

2025 NFL Season Preview – Indianapolis Colts

July 29, 2025
Devon Gallant

2025 NFL Team Preview Series: Indianapolis Colts

Welcome back to our 2025 NFL Team Preview Series, where we’ll dive deep into all 32 franchises ahead of the upcoming season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a fantasy football manager, or just looking to get up to speed before kickoff, this series breaks down everything you need to know about each team’s trajectory.

For every team, we’ll cover:

  • Coaching Staff & Philosophy – Who’s leading the charge, and what kind of system are they running?
  • Offseason Recap – Key free-agent moves, trades, and draft picks that reshaped the roster.
  • Schedule Breakdown – Matchups to watch, tough stretches, and projected win-loss record.

From Super Bowl contenders to rebuilding rosters, we’ll assess where each team stands and what lies ahead in 2025.

Indianapolis Colts

Coaching Staff: Defensive Overhaul

The Indianapolis Colts enter the 2025 season under the continued leadership of Head Coach Shane Steichen and General Manager Chris Ballard. Both were confirmed to return after the 2024 season, signalling stability at the top, albeit likely under a fairly short leash. While the offensive philosophy remains largely consistent, the most significant change comes on the defensive side, reflecting a desire for improved performance.

Steichen remains at the helm as Head Coach. His offensive background continues to shape the team’s identity, focusing on a run-heavy scheme complemented by dynamic play-action and vertical passing. Jim Bob Cooter also returns as Offensive Coordinator, ensuring continuity in the offensive system that aims to develop quarterback Anthony Richardson if he can stay healthy. Brian Mason maintains his role as Special Teams Coordinator.  

The most notable shift comes with the hiring of Lou Anarumo as the new Defensive Coordinator, replacing Gus Bradley. Anarumo, known for his creative and often unpredictable defensive schemes during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, is expected to bring a fresh, aggressive approach to the Colts’ defence. His arrival necessitated several changes within the defensive staff: James Bettcher joins as Linebackers Coach, Chris Hewitt takes on the role of Pass Game Coordinator/Secondary Coach, and Jerome Henderson is the new Defensive Backs Coach. The rest of the defensive staff largely remains intact under Anarumo’s new vision, aiming for immediate impact.

The Colts’ coaching adjustments demonstrates a commitment to refining their defensive identity, hoping Anarumo’s proven system can elevate a unit that’s shown flashes but lacked consistent top-tier performance. On offence, the focus remains on Anthony Richardson’s development within a familiar, high-upside scheme.

2025 Offseason Recap: Quarterback Depth, Defensive Reinforcement, and O-Line Losses

The Indianapolis Colts’ 2025 offseason was characterized by a strategic focus on bolstering the defensive backfield, adding veteran competition at quarterback, and retaining key pieces, even as they navigated some significant departures, particularly along the offensive line. General Manager Chris Ballard continued to build around his young core while attempting to address vulnerabilities.

Key Extensions & Re-signings:

  • Ashton Dulin (WR): Signed a two-year extension.
  • Wesley French (C): Re-signed for one year.
  • Danny Pinter (C/G): Re-signed for one year.  
  • Mo Alie-Cox (TE): Re-signed for one year.  
  • David Long Jr. (CB): Re-signed for one year.  
  • Jahlani Tavai (LB): Signed for one year.

Key Free-Agent Signings (Arrivals):

  • Daniel Jones (QB): Signed a one-year, $14 million deal after being released by the Giants. This was a surprising move, providing a veteran bridge option and direct competition for Anthony Richardson, raising questions about the franchise’s confidence in Richardson’s immediate readiness and health.
  • Charvarius Ward (CB): Signed a three-year deal after leaving the 49ers. A proven, high-quality perimeter corner, Ward is a major upgrade to the secondary and a cornerstone for new DC Lou Anarumo’s scheme.
  • Camryn Bynum (S): Signed a four-year deal after departing the Vikings. Bynum adds a versatile and reliable playmaker to the safety position, further strengthening the defensive backfield.
  • Neville Gallimore (DT): Signed a one-year deal. Provides depth and disruption on the interior defensive line.
  • Khalil Herbert (RB): Signed a one-year deal. Adds speed and an explosive element to the running back room, providing competition and insurance for Jonathan Taylor.
  • Corey Ballentine (CB): Signed a one-year deal. Boosts cornerback depth.
  • Spencer Shrader (K): Signed a one-year deal. Adds competition at kicker.

Notable Departures:

  • Ryan Kelly (C): Signed with the Minnesota Vikings. This is a significant loss, as Kelly was a long-standing Pro Bowl-caliber center and a leader on the offensive line.
  • Will Fries (OG): Signed with the Minnesota Vikings. Another starter/key rotational piece on the offensive line, compounding the losses in the interior.
  • Dayo Odeyingbo (DE): Signed with the Chicago Bears. A young defensive end who showed flashes, his departure creates a need for depth.
  • E.J. Speed (LB): Signed with the Houston Texans. A valuable special teams player and rotational linebacker.
  • Grant Stuard (LB): Signed with the Detroit Lions. Contributor on special teams.
  • Julian Blackmon (S): Remains unsigned.
  • Joe Flacco (QB): Signed with the Cleveland Browns. Provided veteran leadership and surprisingly strong play at times in 2024.
  • Kylen Granson (TE): Signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. A solid receiving tight end.

Offseason Summary: The Colts’ offseason strategy shows a strong push to improve their defence, particularly in the secondary, with the acquisitions of Ward and Bynum complementing the new defensive coordinator who certainly favours veterans in his backfield. The signing of Daniel Jones introduces an intriguing, albeit somewhat concerning, dynamic to the quarterback room, putting pressure on Anthony Richardson to demonstrate consistent progress and durability. The losses on the offensive line, especially Kelly and Fries, are notable and put increased responsibility on the remaining starters and new draft picks to step up. Overall, Indianapolis aimed to solidify key positions and add veteran depth, setting the stage for a competitive 2025 season with some significant questions still lingering, primarily about quarterback consistency and offensive line stability.

2025 NFL Draft Class: Adding Weapons, Bolstering the Defence, and Quarterback Intrigue

The Indianapolis Colts entered the 2025 NFL Draft determined to enhance their offensive arsenal around Anthony Richardson and inject talent into their defence. General Manager Chris Ballard largely stayed put with his early picks, only making one trade to maneuver for depth.

Here’s the full list of the Indianapolis Colts’ 2025 NFL Draft picks:

  • Round 1, Pick 14:Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
    • Analysis: A versatile and athletic tight end known for his blocking prowess and receiving upside. Warren provides Anthony Richardson with a big target, a reliable safety valve, and an immediate upgrade to the run-blocking scheme, essential for Shane Steichen’s offence. This pick signals the Colts’ commitment to building around Richardson’s strengths.
  • Round 2, Pick 45:J.T. Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
    • Analysis: An explosive edge rusher with high potential. Tuimoloau adds a much-needed pass-rushing presence to the defensive line and should quickly integrate into Lou Anarumo’s defensive scheme, complementing Kwity Paye and helping to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
  • Round 3, Pick 80:Justin Walley, CB, Minnesota
    • Analysis: A fundamentally sound and instinctive cornerback. Walley adds depth to the secondary and could compete for a starting nickel or outside role, particularly valuable under the new defensive coordinator.
  • Round 4, Pick 127 (from LAR):Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State
    • Analysis: Acquired after trading down from pick #117 (gaining a 6th-rounder in the process), Travis is a massive and powerful offensive tackle. With the departures of Ryan Kelly and Will Fries, he provides crucial depth and a potential developmental piece for the offensive line, capable of playing tackle or potentially kicking inside to guard.
  • Round 5, Pick 151:D.J. Giddens, RB, Kansas State
    • Analysis: A physical, downhill runner with good vision. Giddens adds depth and another dimension to the backfield, providing insurance for Jonathan Taylor and competition for Khalil Herbert.
  • Round 6, Pick 189:Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame
    • Analysis: A highly athletic, dual-threat quarterback with intriguing upside. While Anthony Richardson is the starter and Daniel Jones provides veteran competition, the selection of Leonard adds a third quarterback with rushing ability, signaling a long-term developmental project and potentially a fallback option if Richardson’s health or progression remains a concern.
  • Round 6, Pick 190 (from LAR):Tim Smith, DT, Alabama
    • Analysis: A strong, experienced defensive tackle who can contribute to the defensive line rotation, adding depth against the run.
  • Round 7, Pick 232:Hunter Wohler, LB, Wisconsin
    • Analysis: A versatile linebacker known for his instincts and ability to play downhill. He’ll likely contribute on special teams and compete for a rotational role.

Key Draft Storyline: Building Around AR, Defensive Depth, and the QB Room Crowd

The Indianapolis Colts’ 2025 NFL Draft reflected a multifaceted approach: continuing to build around their young quarterback, significantly upgrading their defensive talent, and creating an intriguing dynamic in the quarterback room.

The selection of Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State) at 14th overall was an indication of the commitment to Anthony Richardson. Warren’s well-rounded skill set, particularly his blocking, is a perfect fit for Shane Steichen’s run-heavy, play-action-oriented offence, and he offers a much-needed big-bodied target for Richardson in the passing game.

On defence, the Colts made immediate impact additions with J.T. Tuimoloau (DE, Ohio State) in the second round and Justin Walley (CB, Minnesota) in the third. Tuimoloau addresses a crucial need for a consistent pass rush, complementing free-agent signing Charvarius Ward and providing new Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo with more versatile pieces to execute his aggressive schemes. Walley adds reliable depth to a revamped secondary.

The most discussed storyline, however, revolved around the quarterback position. After signing Daniel Jones in free agency to provide a veteran backup/competitor for Anthony Richardson, the Colts then drafted Riley Leonard (QB, Notre Dame) in the sixth round. This move brings the quarterback room to four, raising questions about the long-term confidence in Richardson’s durability and development. While Leonard is likely a developmental project, his dual-threat ability aligns with Steichen’s offensive preferences, creating an unusual depth chart where competition for the starting role, and even the backup spot, could be intense.  

The Colts also addressed their offensive line later in the draft with Jalen Travis (OT, Iowa State) after trading down in the fourth round. Given the departures of Ryan Kelly and Will Fries, the lack of an earlier pick at interior offensive line positions is notable and puts pressure on remaining veterans and Travis to step up. Overall, this draft class emphasized adding foundational pieces, particularly on defence, while simultaneously sending mixed signals regarding the future of their highly drafted quarterback through their veteran and rookie signings.

2025 Schedule Breakdown & Win-Loss Prediction

The Indianapolis Colts face a challenging but navigable 2025 schedule as they aim to return to the playoffs. Their divisional matchups remain critical, and inter-conference games provide opportunities to prove their mettle.

  • Weeks 1–6: Early Season Tests
    • Week 1: vs. Miami Dolphins
    • Week 2: vs. Denver Broncos 
    • Week 3: at Tennessee Titans
    • Week 4: at Los Angeles Rams 
    • Week 5: vs. Las Vegas Raiders
    • Week 6: vs. Arizona Cardinals 

Outlook: A mixed bag of early games. Home matchups against Miami and Denver will be tough tests, while the Titans, Raiders, and Cardinals offer winnable games, especially at home. Starting strong will be key for momentum.

Prediction: 3-3

  • Weeks 7–12: Mid-Season Grind and International Flavor
    • Week 7: at Los Angeles Chargers 
    • Week 8: vs. Tennessee Titans
    • Week 9: at Pittsburgh Steelers
    • Week 10: vs. Atlanta Falcons (in Berlin) 
    • Week 11: BYE 
    • Week 12: at Kansas City Chiefs

Outlook: A demanding stretch including road games against the Chargers, Steelers, and the defending champion Chiefs. The international game against the Falcons adds another unique challenge before a late bye week. The second Titans game is critical for divisional standing.

Prediction: 2-3 (Overall: 5-6)

  • Weeks 13–18: Playoff Push and Divisional Deciders
    • Week 13: vs. Houston Texans
    • Week 14: at Jacksonville Jaguars
    • Week 15: at Seattle Seahawks
    • Week 16: vs. San Francisco 49ers (MNF)
    • Week 17: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars 
    • Week 18: at Houston Texans

Outlook: The end of the season is loaded with pivotal AFC South matchups against the Texans and Jaguars, plus tough NFC clashes with the Seahawks and 49ers. The outcome of these divisional games will likely determine their playoff fate.

Prediction: 2-4

Final Record Prediction: 7-10

The Indianapolis Colts have made moves to improve their defence, but the lingering questions at quarterback and the losses on the offensive line create uncertainty. If Anthony Richardson can stay healthy and show significant progression, and if the new offensive line can hold its own, the Colts have the talent to push for a playoff spot. However, the competition in the AFC South and the broader AFC is stiff. A 7-10 record would be a decline from what they accomplished last season, but also the inherent risks with their quarterback situation and the offensive line’s stability make their 2025 outlook murkier. They will be a tough, physical team under Shane Steichen, but consistency will be key.

Final Take: A Season of High Stakes and High Upside

The Indianapolis Colts are entering a pivotal 2025 season, marked by high expectations and considerable intrigue. The return of Head Coach Shane Steichen and General Manager Chris Ballard signals stability, but the moves made this offseason underscore a clear mandate for improvement and deeper playoff contention.

The most significant storyline revolves around Anthony Richardson. While his potential remains sky-high due to his unparalleled athleticism and rushing ability, his durability and need for passing development are paramount. The signing of Daniel Jones puts Richardson on notice, creating a dynamic where the starting job could genuinely be contested or quickly change hands if Richardson struggles. This quarterback situation will dictate the ceiling of the entire offence.

Defensively, the hiring of Lou Anarumo as coordinator, combined with the significant free-agent additions of Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum, suggests a renewed commitment to creating a dominant unit. This defence, featuring DeForest Buckner, Kwity Paye, and now reinforced secondary pieces, has the potential to be a top-tier fantasy and real-life asset, capable of keeping the Colts in any game.

Offensively, Jonathan Taylor remains a foundational piece, but the addition of Khalil Herbert implies a more diversified backfield approach. The receiving corps, led by Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs, and bolstered by the first-round drafting of Tyler Warren, offers plenty of weapons for whichever quarterback is under center. The primary concern here is the offensive line, which lost key veterans in Ryan Kelly and Will Fries. How this revamped unit performs will directly impact the effectiveness of both the run game and Richardson’s ability to operate in the pocket.

The 2025 schedule presents a challenging path, with tough divisional matchups and competitive inter-conference play. The Colts are built to be a physically imposing team, and if the quarterback situation solidifies and the offensive line holds up, they possess the talent to be a dark-horse contender in the AFC. A 9-8 record is a realistic projection, representing a step forward, but their true ceiling will depend on Anthony Richardson’s health and leap in development, making them one of the most fascinating teams to watch this season.

-Devon Gallant

Twitter: @DevGallant

Photo: Tennessee Titans. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license.