Indianapolis Colts Release Unofficial Depth Chart Ahead of Preseason Week 1 Showdown Against Baltimore Ravens Revealing Key Position Battles
The Indianapolis Colts have officially released their first unofficial depth chart of the 2025 preseason ahead of Thursday night’s Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. While the word “unofficial” always leaves room for interpretation and adjustments, this early lineup offers a valuable glimpse into the current state of the roster, the coaching staff’s evaluations so far, and which players are in line to earn significant playing time as the season draws nearer.
As expected, one of the most compelling storylines heading into this preseason opener is the quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. Richardson, the third-year passer drafted fourth overall in 2023, appears atop the depth chart—but notably with an “OR” designation next to his name, indicating that free-agent acquisition Daniel Jones is still very much in the conversation. The Colts are clearly leaving the door open for either signal-caller to win the starting role, with Head Coach Shane Steichen set to evaluate their performances closely throughout the preseason.
Richardson, who flashed elite athleticism and high-end playmaking ability in limited action before injuries derailed his first two seasons, is eager to solidify his place as the team’s long-term leader. Reports out of camp indicate his arm strength remains impressive and his decision-making has improved. Meanwhile, Jones, who signed with Indianapolis this offseason after being released by the New York Giants, has impressed with his poise, accuracy, and leadership. The coaching staff has praised both quarterbacks for their approach and competitive fire, setting up what promises to be one of the league’s more intriguing preseason quarterback battles.
Behind them on the depth chart is veteran backup Joe Flacco, who was brought in to offer experience and mentorship. While Flacco is unlikely to seriously challenge for the starting job, his presence adds stability to the room. Rookie undrafted free agent Malik Murphy, out of Texas, rounds out the quarterback unit and is expected to see extended playing time late in preseason games as he develops.
The running back room presents less drama but plenty of potential. Jonathan Taylor remains the RB1 on the depth chart, fully healthy and looking to return to Pro Bowl form after missing chunks of the last two seasons with injury. Second-year back Evan Hull is listed as the primary backup and continues to show improvement as both a runner and a pass-catcher. Trey Sermon and Kenyan Drake follow on the chart, both providing depth and special teams value. Rookie rusher Jawhar Jordan, the dynamic back out of Louisville, is a name to watch closely; he’s listed fifth for now but has generated buzz in camp with his burst and agility.
At wide receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. headlines the group as the clear-cut WR1. After signing a lucrative extension this offseason, Pittman has looked every bit the part of a franchise cornerstone. Second-year standout Josh Downs is listed as a starting slot receiver, while Alec Pierce, entering a critical third season, holds the WR2 spot on the outside opposite Pittman. Rookies Anthony Gould and Devontez Walker are fighting for roster spots and special teams duties, while veterans Ashton Dulin and Isaiah McKenzie provide depth and versatility.
The tight end position is perhaps the deepest and most unpredictable on the team. Jelani Woods, who missed much of last year due to hamstring issues, is listed as TE1, with Mo Alie-Cox and Kylen Granson right behind him. Rookie Tip Reiman, known more for his blocking prowess, could carve out a niche role in heavy packages. The “OR” listings in this group further highlight the competitiveness and interchangeability the Colts plan to utilize here.
Up front, the offensive line looks largely intact, anchored by All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson and center Ryan Kelly. Bernard Raimann retains his spot at left tackle after an impressive sophomore campaign, while Will Fries and Braden Smith round out the starting five. Rookie Blake Fisher, a second-round pick from Notre Dame, is backing up at both tackle spots and figures to be a key swing lineman this year. The depth chart shows a healthy mix of returning veterans and promising young players, indicating a solid foundation and room for development.
On the defensive side, the Colts maintain their identity as a unit built on speed, youth, and disruption. Defensive end Samson Ebukam and Pro Bowler DeForest Buckner headline the front four, with Dayo Odeyingbo and Grover Stewart rounding out the starters. Kwity Paye is listed as a backup at defensive end, though expect him to rotate heavily and challenge for starting snaps. Rookie Adisa Isaac, selected in the third round, is one to monitor as he acclimates to the pro game.
The linebacker corps sees the return of All-Pro Shaquille Leonard, who is finally healthy after two injury-plagued seasons. He’s slotted at weak-side linebacker, with E.J. Speed and Zaire Franklin rounding out the starting trio. Franklin, the team’s tackling leader in 2024, continues to ascend as a leader and tone-setter. Behind them, undrafted standout Dorian Jones has emerged as a camp riser, pushing veterans like Grant Stuard and Cameron McGrone.
The Colts’ secondary also features some new faces and intriguing competitions. Veteran Kenny Moore II holds down the slot cornerback role, while JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones are listed as the starting outside corners. Rookie first-round pick Kamari Lassiter is second on the depth chart but is expected to push hard for starting duties throughout camp. At safety, Julian Blackmon and Rodney Thomas II remain the projected starters, but second-year player Daniel Scott and former 49ers safety George Odum are close behind and should factor heavily into sub-packages and special teams.
Special teams sees familiar faces atop the depth chart, with Matt Gay listed as the kicker and Rigoberto Sanchez handling punting duties. Rookie Ethan Evans, a late-round pick with a booming leg, is listed behind Sanchez but could challenge him depending on preseason performance. Isaiah McKenzie and Anthony Gould are listed as the primary returners for both punts and kickoffs, and both have flashed explosiveness in practice.
Overall, the unofficial depth chart is a useful benchmark, but it’s far from set in stone. Coaches have emphasized repeatedly that nothing is finalized and that these next few weeks of preseason games and practices will be decisive. With injuries, performance, and chemistry all factoring into final roster decisions, the depth chart will continue to evolve before Week 1 of the regular season arrives.
What this chart does provide, however, is clarity on several key position battles—none more high-profile than the one under center. Anthony Richardson may have the slight edge for now, but Daniel Jones will get his shot to make a statement in Thursday’s preseason opener against the Ravens. Shane Steichen and offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter will be watching closely, evaluating who commands the huddle, manages the offense, and makes winning plays under pressure.
Beyond the quarterback position, the battles at tight end, wide receiver depth, cornerback, and linebacker will be closely monitored. Young players such as Kamari Lassiter, Jawhar Jordan, and Dorian Jones have excellent opportunities to make a name for themselves. Veterans such as Shaquille Leonard and Kenny Moore must prove they’re still at the top of their game. And for everyone on the roster bubble, every snap and special teams rep matters.
Thursday night in Baltimore will be more than just a warmup; it’s a proving ground. The Colts are entering the 2025 season with real aspirations of returning to the playoffs. For that to happen, the right players must rise now. The unofficial depth chart is merely the first signal of where things stand today. But football is a game of change, challenge, and opportunity—and this preseason will determine who earns their spot when it counts.
