The Indianapolis Colts recently announced that Daniel Jones will be the starting quarterback for the 2025-26 NFL Season. Jones beat out two-year player Anthony Richardson, who has had trouble being healthy and having consistency issues on the field.
The former New York Giant signed a one-year deal with Indy, and depending on his performance, could remain with the team as their solution to their QB issues.
If the season goes wrong for the Colts, they will most likely start from sctratch. Bringing in a new front office, coaching staff and quarterback to be the face of the team.
Texas quarterback Arch Manning recently dropped a questionable hint about whether he will or won't declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. Saying that he is taking it "day-by-day."
Yet, his response has left the college football and NFL world with the thought that he may become a professional next year.
The Indianapolis Colts have their short-term answer at quarterback, but could use Arch Manning for the future.
FanSided's Scott Rogust names the Colts as a team that is in a good position to tank for the highly touted quarterback.
"On Tuesday, Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced that Jones was the team's starting quarterback, not just for the first game, but for the entire season. Giants fans everywhere said "good luck with that" when they heard that announcement," Rogust wrote. "It's hard to see the Colts contending for a playoff spot with their quarterback situation. Colts fans will see how Giants fans felt watching Jones lead an offense."
"If the Colts bottom out, they will dream of Arch playing for the Colts like his uncle Peyton did."
A Manning returning to Indianapolis would be a well-fitted story for the city. Arch can get drafted by the organization, like his uncle did, and help the franchise get back on its feet.
While Arch Manning playing for the Indianapolis Colts seems possible, Colts fans have to remain skeptical if Arch remains at Texas.
As the quarterback said, he is taking things day by day and there is no clear answer on what he will do.
Head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard are in the hot seat this season, with their jobs on the line with whoever is behind the center this season.
The Colts may make a midseason trade for another quarterback that could help them remain competitive in the division. A failed tank could place them higher in next year's draft and prevent them from drafting Arch Manning.
If the Colts were to hire a new coaching staff, they may believe another option could be the key to helping the franchise.
In all, there is no clear answer for what is next for the Indianapolis Colts.