Lecture Notes: The Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Saga

Introduction

• Indianapolis Colts known as a "quarterback graveyard" since 2011.
• 18 different QBs have played, leading to fan frustration.
• Discussion points: bad luck, poor coaching, curse, or something else?

2012: A New Era with Andrew Luck

• 2012 Draft: Colts picked Andrew Luck after releasing Peyton Manning.
• Luck heralded as a promising QB prospect, compared to NFL greats.
• Luck's rookie season: 11-5 record, playoff birth, 4,300 yards, 23 TDs.

Andrew Luck's Career Highlights

• 2013: Comeback against Kansas City Chiefs, thrown for 443 yards, 4 TDs.
• 2014: Threw for 4,700 yards, 40 TDs, reached AFC Championship.
• Luck's performance elevated a mediocre roster, but the team didn't properly protect him.

The Decline and Injuries

• 2015-2016: Shoulder injuries and mismanagement led to decline.
• 2016: Played through torn labrum, requiring surgery.
• 2017: Missed entire season due to injury mismanagement.

Brief Comeback and Retirement

• 2018: Returned, led Colts to playoffs, 4,500 yards, 39 TDs.
• Investment in offensive line improved protection.
• 2019: Retired at age 29, shocking fans and NFL.

Post-Luck Quarterback Carousel

• 2019-2024: Multiple QBs tried, each season ended in disappointment.
• 2019: Jacoby Brissett was not the long-term answer.
• 2020: Philip Rivers led them to playoffs but retired after one season.
• 2021: Carson Wentz's tenure ended in failure, traded away after playoff collapse.
• 2022: Matt Ryan struggled, Colts finished 4-12-1.

The Draft Pick: Anthony Richardson

• 2023 Draft: Colts picked Anthony Richardson, known for his athleticism.
• Showed potential but was injured frequently.
• 2024: Took himself out of a game due to fatigue, sparking controversy.

Current Situation and Future Prospects

• 2025: Signed Daniel Jones as competition for Richardson.
• Colts insist on competition to bring out the best in both QBs.
• Still seeking a stable, successful quarterback.

Conclusion

• Since 2019, Colts have struggled with finding and maintaining a franchise quarterback.
• The franchise's future remains uncertain with Anthony Richardson and new additions.
• Fans hope for stability and success in the upcoming seasons.