Indianapolis Colts: 2025 Roster, Players, Schedule, Super Bowl Wins, and More

The Indianapolis Colts are a professional American football team based in Indianapolis, Indiana, competing in the NFL's AFC South division. Initially founded in 1953 as the Baltimore Colts, the franchise relocated to Indianapolis in 1984. The team plays its home games at Lucas Oil Stadium and sports royal blue and white as its official colors.

Over the years, the Colts have achieved notable success, winning two Super Bowl titles—one in 1970 as the Baltimore Colts and another in 2006 under quarterback Peyton Manning. The team has been home to several NFL legends, including Johnny Unitas, Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison, and Reggie Wayne. In recent years, the Colts have been in a rebuilding phase, with a focus on developing young talent like quarterback Anthony Richardson under the leadership of head coach Shane Steichen.

Overview of the Indianapolis Colts

Historical Background of the Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts have a rich and storied history that dates back to 1953, when the team was first established as the Baltimore Colts. The franchise was granted to Baltimore after the folding of the Dallas Texans, and quickly built a passionate fan base. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Colts emerged as one of the NFL’s premier teams, led by legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, whose tough and innovative style helped revolutionize the passing game. Their victory in the 1958 NFL Championship Game—often referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played"—was a landmark moment that helped popularize professional football across the U.S.

The team won Super Bowl V in 1970, marking its first world championship in the Super Bowl era. However, due to financial and stadium issues, the Colts controversially relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984, moving overnight in a fleet of moving trucks. In their new home, the franchise eventually found great success in the 2000s behind Peyton Manning, one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NFL history. This era culminated in a Super Bowl XLI victory in 2006 and another appearance in 2009.

Over the decades, the Colts have seen highs and lows, from historic rivalries and Hall of Fame careers to rebuilding phases. Despite challenges, the franchise remains one of the most recognized and competitive teams in the league, with a legacy built on innovation, resilience, and star talent.

Notable Milestones and Achievements

• Founded in 1953 as the Baltimore Colts, the team became a cornerstone franchise of the NFL’s early decades and moved to Indianapolis in 1984, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
• Captured their first NFL Championship in 1958 in what’s widely known as “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” a sudden-death victory over the New York Giants that helped popularize the NFL nationwide.
• Won three pre-Super Bowl NFL Championships (1958, 1959, and 1968), led by Hall of Fame quarterback Johnny Unitas, one of the most iconic figures in NFL history.
• Reached their first Super Bowl in the 1968 season (Super Bowl III) but lost in a historic upset to Joe Namath’s New York Jets.
• Earned redemption by winning Super Bowl V in the 1970 season, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 16–13 with a late field goal, capturing their first Super Bowl title.
• Relocated to Indianapolis in 1984, beginning a new era while retaining the team's legacy and championship pedigree.
• Drafted Peyton Manning with the No. 1 overall pick in 1998, who went on to become a four-time MVP with the Colts, revolutionizing the quarterback position and setting numerous league records.
• Under Manning and head coach Tony Dungy, the Colts reached the playoffs 11 times in 13 years, dominating the AFC South and setting the NFL record for most wins in a decade (115 from 2000–2009).
• Won Super Bowl XLI in the 2006 season, defeating the Chicago Bears 29–17, making Tony Dungy the first African-American head coach to win a Super Bowl.
• Returned to the Super Bowl in the 2009 season (Super Bowl XLIV) but lost to Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints.
• After Manning’s departure, the team drafted Andrew Luck No. 1 overall in 2012, who led the Colts to three straight playoff appearances, including the 2014 AFC Championship Game.
• Known for producing Hall of Fame-caliber talent, including Johnny Unitas, Raymond Berry, Peyton Manning, Edgerrin James, Marvin Harrison, and Dwight Freeney, with Robert Mathis and others likely to follow.
• Opened Lucas Oil Stadium in 2008, a premier NFL venue and home to multiple NFL Combine events, boosting both team operations and the city of Indianapolis.
• Entered a rebuilding phase following Andrew Luck’s unexpected retirement in 2019 but began a new era in 2023 by hiring head coach Shane Steichen and drafting dual-threat quarterback Anthony Richardson to lead the offense.

As of 2025, the Colts are aiming to reassert themselves as AFC contenders by building around a young, dynamic core, a strong offensive line, and a defensive front anchored by veterans like DeForest Buckner and Shaquille Leonard.

Major Rivalries of the Indianapolis Colts

New England Patriots

The Colts-Patriots rivalry defined the AFC in the 2000s and early 2010s. Fueled by the quarterback duel between Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, the matchups often carried Super Bowl implications and featured dramatic finishes. The rivalry peaked in the 2006 AFC Championship Game, where the Colts overcame an 18-point deficit to defeat New England en route to their Super Bowl XLI victory. Even after Manning’s departure, the rivalry continued with Andrew Luck at the helm. Though the intensity has cooled in recent years, meetings between the two franchises still evoke memories of a golden era of NFL football.

Houston Texans

As AFC South rivals since 2002, the Colts and Texans have built a competitive series marked by playoff battles and divisional drama. Indianapolis has historically held the upper hand, including a dominant win in the 2018 Wild Card Round, but Houston has remained a persistent threat. With both teams undergoing recent rebuilds and boasting young cores—Anthony Richardson in Indy and C.J. Stroud in Houston, the rivalry is primed for a fresh and exciting chapter.

Tennessee Titans

The Colts-Titans rivalry is a cornerstone of the AFC South. Indianapolis dominated the early 2000s with Peyton Manning, but the Titans have clawed their way back in recent years behind a physical, run-first identity. The 2020s have brought more balanced competition, with both teams trading wins and battling for playoff spots. The emergence of Richardson and the Titans' search for a long-term quarterback make this rivalry one to watch as both franchises retool.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Though the Colts historically held the edge, Jacksonville has become a consistent thorn in their side, particularly at home. The rivalry reached a low point for Indy in Week 18 of the 2021 season, when the Jaguars stunned the Colts and knocked them out of playoff contention. With both teams now rebuilding with franchise quarterbacks—Richardson for the Colts and Trevor Lawrence for the Jags—this divisional rivalry has grown in significance and competitiveness.

Baltimore Ravens

This rivalry is rooted in history and emotion. The Colts’ controversial relocation from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984 left lasting bitterness among fans. While not a divisional opponent, every Colts-Ravens matchup carries symbolic weight, especially in Baltimore. On the field, the teams have clashed in several intense games, including the Colts’ playoff win in 2006 en route to their Super Bowl run. The off-field narrative keeps this rivalry alive regardless of the standings.

Pittsburgh Steelers

A classic AFC rivalry with roots in physical postseason battles. The Colts and Steelers have met in several memorable playoff contests, including the heartbreaking 2005 Divisional Round, where the Colts lost despite being favorites. Pittsburgh has often been a roadblock for Indianapolis, both in the regular season and postseason. Every meeting between these storied franchises brings a playoff-like atmosphere and no shortage of drama.

Major Contracts of the Indianapolis Colts in 2025

As the Indianapolis Colts continue building around a young core led by Anthony Richardson, the front office has made several key investments to secure top talent on both sides of the ball. Here's a look at the Colts’ major contracts heading into the 2025 NFL season:

• Anthony Richardson (Quarterback)

  Richardson, the Colts' dynamic second-year quarterback, is on his rookie deal but is already seen as the franchise’s centerpiece. His 2025 cap hit is around $9 million, offering tremendous value for a dual-threat quarterback with elite upside. Indianapolis will look to build a championship-caliber roster while Richardson remains on his rookie contract.

• Quenton Nelson (Left Guard)

  One of the premier offensive linemen in the league, Nelson carries a $24 million cap hit in 2025. A four-time All-Pro, Nelson anchors the Colts' offensive line and plays a vital role in protecting Richardson and paving the way for the run game. His contract reflects his elite talent and leadership.

• DeForest Buckner (Defensive Tackle)

  Buckner’s cap hit stands at $22 million in 2025, making him the highest-paid defender on the roster. A consistent Pro Bowl-caliber force in the trenches, Buckner is the heart of the Colts’ defensive front and a cornerstone of their pass rush and run defense.

• Jonathan Taylor (Running Back)

  Taylor signed a contract extension in 2023 that carries a $14 million cap hit in 2025. One of the league’s most explosive running backs, Taylor remains a key component of the Colts’ offense, capable of breaking big plays and taking pressure off Richardson.

• Shaquille Leonard (Linebacker)

  Leonard is set to make $19.8 million in 2025. Despite recent injury concerns, Leonard’s high football IQ, tackling ability, and playmaking skills keep him as a focal point of the Colts’ defense. The team hopes he returns to All-Pro form in the upcoming season.

• Michael Pittman Jr. (Wide Receiver)

  After signing a new deal in 2024, Pittman enters 2025 with a $17 million cap hit. As Richardson’s top target, Pittman provides size, physicality, and reliable hands in the passing game. His extension ensures continuity and chemistry within the Colts’ young offense.

• Bernhard Raimann (Left Tackle)

  Raimann remains on his rookie contract in 2025 with a modest cap hit of $2.3 million, offering excellent value for a rising offensive tackle tasked with protecting Richardson’s blind side. A long-term extension may be on the horizon if his strong play continues.

• Kenny Moore II (Cornerback)

  Moore, one of the NFL’s top slot corners, carries a $10.2 million cap hit in 2025. His veteran presence and ability to cover dynamic slot receivers make him a valuable piece of the secondary, especially as the Colts blend youth into their defensive backfield.

• Zaire Franklin (Linebacker)

  Franklin’s 2025 cap hit sits at $9.8 million. A team leader and tackling machine, Franklin is an underrated but essential cog in the Colts’ defense, known for his work ethic and sideline-to-sideline presence.

Notable Coaches and Players

• Tony Dungy (2002–2008) – Dungy brought stability and leadership to the Colts after the turbulent 2001 season. Under his guidance, the Colts won Super Bowl XLI, with Dungy becoming the first African-American head coach to win a Super Bowl. His calm, disciplined coaching style laid the foundation for the Colts' sustained success throughout the 2000s.
• Jim Caldwell (2009–2011) – Caldwell succeeded Dungy and led the Colts to an impressive Super Bowl XLIV appearance in the 2009 season. Though his tenure was short, Caldwell helped maintain the high level of performance with Peyton Manning and kept the Colts among the NFL’s elite.
• Chuck Pagano (2012–2017) – Pagano brought toughness and emotional leadership, especially in overcoming his battle with leukemia in 2012. Under Pagano, the Colts made the playoffs four times and enjoyed a memorable 2014 run to the AFC Championship Game.
• Frank Reich (2018–2022) – Known for his offensive-minded approach and leadership, Reich led the Colts through some turbulent seasons, including a playoff appearance in 2020, before parting ways with the team in 2022.
• Shane Steichen (2023–Present) – Steichen took over as head coach in 2023 and quickly set the stage for the Colts' rebuilding phase. Known for developing young quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts, Steichen brings creativity and offensive innovation to Indianapolis.
• Peyton Manning (QB, 1998–2011) – One of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Manning led the Colts to two Super Bowl appearances and one victory (Super Bowl XLI). His leadership and record-breaking performances made him the face of the franchise for over a decade.
• Edgerrin James (RB, 1999–2005) – A dynamic back who twice led the NFL in rushing, James was pivotal to the Colts' offensive success in the early 2000s. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020.
• Marvin Harrison (WR, 1996–2008) – An elite route runner and sure-handed target, Harrison was Peyton Manning’s go-to receiver and set numerous NFL and franchise receiving records.
• Reggie Wayne (WR, 2001–2014) – A reliable and explosive weapon in the Colts’ passing game, Wayne ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in receptions and receiving yards.
• Dwight Freeney (DE, 2002–2012) – A speed rusher known for his trademark spin move, Freeney terrorized quarterbacks and helped anchor the Colts’ defense during their championship run.
• Robert Mathis (OLB, 2003–2016) – The franchise’s all-time sack leader, Mathis complemented Freeney on the edge and was named the NFL’s sack leader in 2013.
• Andrew Luck (QB, 2012–2018) – Drafted as the successor to Manning, Luck led the Colts to multiple playoff appearances and an AFC Championship Game in 2014 before retiring early in 2019 due to injuries.
• Shaquille Leonard (LB, 2018–Present) – A high-energy, high-impact linebacker, Leonard (formerly Darius) made an immediate impact as Defensive Rookie of the Year and remains a cornerstone of the Colts’ defense.
• DeForest Buckner (DT, 2020–Present) – Acquired from San Francisco, Buckner has become a dominant presence on the interior defensive line and a team leader.
• Jonathan Taylor (RB, 2020–Present) – Taylor led the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns in 2021 and is a centerpiece of the Colts’ offense thanks to his elite vision and speed.
• Michael Pittman Jr. (WR, 2020–Present) – A physical receiver and consistent playmaker, Pittman has grown into the Colts’ WR1 role and a key figure in the passing game.
• Kenny Moore II (CB, 2017–Present) – One of the top slot cornerbacks in the NFL, Moore brings versatility, toughness, and leadership to the Colts' secondary.
• Quenton Nelson (OG, 2018–Present) – A perennial All-Pro, Nelson is one of the league’s most dominant interior linemen, anchoring the Colts’ offensive line.
• Braden Smith (OT, 2018–Present) – A consistent and reliable tackle, Smith has been vital in protecting the quarterback and paving lanes in the run game.

Who Are the Starters for the 2025 Season?

Offense Line

• Quarterback: Anthony Richardson
• Running Back: Jonathan Taylor
• Wide Receivers:
  • WR1: Michael Pittman Jr.
  • WR2: Alec Pierce
  • Slot WR: Josh Downs
• Tight End: Drew Ogletree
• Offensive Line:
  • Left Tackle: Bernhard Raimann
  • Left Guard: Quenton Nelson
  • Center: Danny Pinter
  • Right Guard: Kelvin Banks Jr.
  • Right Tackle: Braden Smith

Defense Line

• Left Defensive End: Kwity Paye
• Defensive Tackles: DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart
• Right Defensive End: Samson Ebukam
• Linebackers:
  • Weakside LB: Jaylon Carlies
  • Middle LB: Zaire Franklin
• Cornerbacks:
  • CB1: Charvarius Ward
  • CB2: Julius Brents
  • Slot CB: Kenny Moore II
• Safeties:
  • Free Safety: Cam Bynum
  • Strong Safety: Nick Cross​

Special Teams

• Kicker: Matt Gay
• Punter: Rigoberto Sanchez
• Long Snapper: Luke Rhodes
• Kick Returner: Tyler Goodson
• Punt Returner: Josh Downs

The Schedule of the Indianapolis Colts in 2025

While the specific dates and kickoff times will be announced later in the spring, fans can already start gearing up for an exciting mix of divisional matchups and intriguing interconference showdowns.

Home Games (Lucas Oil Stadium)

• Houston Texans
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Tennessee Titans
• Buffalo Bills
• New York Jets
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• New Orleans Saints
• Pittsburgh Steelers

Away Games

• Houston Texans
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Tennessee Titans
• New England Patriots
• Miami Dolphins
• Chicago Bears
• Green Bay Packers
• Denver Broncos