cosmo365 Zaire Franklin believes competition for starting quarterback Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones will benefit Indy.

Veteran linebacker Zaire Franklin believes the competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones for the Indianapolis Colts’ starting quarterback job will make everyone better, NFL Network reports. cosmo365

The Colts signed former New York Giants QB Jones to compete with Richardson for a starting role after the former No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft struggled with injuries throughout his first two years and was inefficient, inaccurate and lacked judgment, playing in just 15 games over two seasons.

But Indy isn’t giving up on Richardson, believing the 22-year-old quarterback can still improve. Now he’s competing with Jones, who is also looking to revive his career, and Franklin, the 28-year-old linebacker, believes the competition makes everyone better.

‘I love Anthony,’ Franklin said. ‘Obviously being there for him on the pitch through the highs and lows of last season was tough, but obviously (I’m) supportive of him and his growth. 

“I think with the changes we’ve seen, some of the quarterbacks that have been drafted high have gotten into new situations and have been able to thrive. You look at Geno Smith, you look at Sam Darnold,” Franklin added. 

‘The list goes on and on, they just moved into a different building with Baker Mayfield and with a new perspective and new circumstances, they can succeed and play as expected based on their draft status.’ 

‘Obviously (general manager Chris) Ballard puts a lot of emphasis on competition. Honestly, competition is what makes me reach my full potential in my career. When I come in with Darius Leonard, Bobby Okereki, Anthony Walker, E.J. Speed, they’re making me better every day.’

‘I learn a lot from their games and they learn from me. That’s part of the reason we’ve been successful, because we’ve been able to grow together. Competition helps everybody. Of course I still love Anthony, I still believe in Anthony, but I know Daniel Jones is going to elevate that room as well. ‘ 

‘The only answer to the competition is to keep your head down and do your best. As I said, that will allow everyone involved in that situation to perform to their best potential.’ ( cosmo365 )