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Colts Sign Veteran QB Joe Flacco

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 8:26 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Indiana, New York, Maryland, New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 22, 2026 - The Indianapolis Colts announced today the signing of veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to a one-year contract, bringing in a seasoned presence to bolster their quarterback room following the unfortunate season-ending ankle injury sustained by starter Daniel Jones. The move signals a pragmatic approach by the Colts' front office to address immediate needs while simultaneously maintaining a focus on the future development of young talent.

Flacco, a Super Bowl XLVII champion with the Baltimore Ravens, hadn't seen regular season action since his stint with the New York Jets in the 2023 season. He recently visited with the Los Angeles Rams in January, but ultimately chose to sign with Indianapolis. While some may view Flacco as past his prime, his extensive experience - over 15 years in the NFL - is precisely what the Colts are looking for in a backup role, especially given the recent injury woes plaguing their quarterback position.

The Colts' quarterback situation has been turbulent. Anthony Richardson, the highly touted rookie drafted in 2024, showcased flashes of brilliance early in the season before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. While the team remains optimistic about Richardson's long-term potential, his availability remains a concern. Daniel Jones was brought in as a free agent to provide stability, but now finds himself sidelined with an ankle injury, pushing the Colts to seek immediate reinforcement.

Coach Shane Steichen expressed confidence in Flacco's ability to contribute to the team, stating, "Joe's got a ton of experience. He's won a lot of games. He's a really good person, and he's going to come in and add a lot to our team." Steichen's comments highlight the importance of leadership and mentorship in the locker room, qualities Flacco possesses in abundance. The hope is that Flacco can provide a steady hand if called upon, and more importantly, serve as a valuable resource for Richardson and other younger players on the roster.

The Broader Implications for the AFC South

The addition of Flacco doesn't immediately propel the Colts into Super Bowl contention, but it significantly improves their depth at a crucial position. The AFC South is becoming increasingly competitive, with the Houston Texans emerging as a legitimate playoff threat and the Jacksonville Jaguars consistently vying for the division title. Having a reliable backup quarterback is paramount in a league defined by injuries. Flacco's presence provides insurance against further setbacks and allows the Colts to remain competitive even if Richardson or Jones are unavailable.

Looking Ahead to the NFL Draft

While Flacco addresses the immediate need, the Colts are still expected to consider adding a quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft. The draft class is projected to be deep with promising quarterback prospects, offering the Colts an opportunity to secure a potential franchise player. Flacco's signing allows the team to approach the draft strategically, avoiding the panic of being forced to select a quarterback solely based on positional need. They can now evaluate the available prospects and choose the best fit, even if it means waiting until a later round.

Flacco's Role and Expectations

Flacco isn't expected to immediately challenge for the starting role. His primary function is to be a dependable backup, ready to step in when called upon. However, his experience and arm talent shouldn't be underestimated. If given the opportunity, Flacco has demonstrated in the past that he's capable of leading a team to victory. The Colts' offensive scheme, under Steichen, is known for its versatility and emphasis on quick reads, which could suit Flacco's skill set.

The signing of Joe Flacco represents a calculated move by the Indianapolis Colts to navigate a challenging quarterback landscape. It's a testament to their commitment to building a competitive roster, both in the present and for the future. While the road to contention remains arduous, the Colts have taken a step in the right direction by adding a veteran presence to their quarterback room.