Colts’ Riley Leonard talks quarterback competition, growth in second NFL season

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Colts quarterback Riley Leonard is entering his second season in Indianapolis. The 23-year-old quarterback was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft and is now competing with Anthony Richardson for the backup quarterback spot.

During the 2026 AC Golf Classic, Leonard described the positive relationship he’s created with Richardson and what it’s been like competing for the backup spot.

“It’s great, me and Ant [Anthony Richardson] are really close friends, so we’re just building each other up,” Leonard said. “It’s been fun. We both know that the best version of our own selves is good enough. Yeah, we’re competing against each other, but the way we see it, we’re competing against the best version of ourselves.”

As Leonard continues to find his footing in the NFL, he mentioned the steps he’s taken to improve at the highest level.

“I always talk about it, but really learning the why of the offense has been an emphasis this year,” Leonard said. “I’m not too worried about what people are doing or what the routes are at this point. I’m able to lock in on the real insider info of the game of football. Trying to be a sponge and learn as much as I can.”

Leonard mentioned what he believes the ...