Shane Steichen's uphill task of solving Indianapolis Colts' quarterback woes: Can he build through the draft?

Shane Steichen's massive impact on the Philadelphia Eagles offense is one reason why he was considered for the head coach role at the Indianapolis Colts, and he got it, too. The former Eagles offensive coordinator now faces a challenge to solve the team's quarterback issues.

Steichen took over the Eagles' offense in 2021 and successfully transformed it into one of the most efficient and productive units in the NFL. He played a pivotal role in nurturing the talent of quarterback Jalen Hurt, who has become the backbone of the team's offense.

The 37-year-old also has a track record of developing quarterback Justin Herbert while he was with the Los Angeles Chargers. Now in the top role, the least expected of Steichen is to find a lasting solution to the Colts' quarterback problems, which have now lasted four seasons.

Indianapolis Colts' Quarterback Problems

The Indianapolis Colts have continuously had issues with the quarterback role since the 2019 season. This is partially because of the retirement of Andrew Luck at the end of the 2018 season, which abruptly ended his injury-riddled career at the young age of 29 after seven seasons in the NFL.

Andrew Luck became a franchise quarterback for the Colts when he was selected as the first pick in the 2012 NFL draft. His arrival immediately changed the tides of the team, leading them to a uniform 11-5 record in his first three seasons.

The quarterback, however, began to struggle with injuries in 2015. It got so bad that he missed the entire 2017 season due to a shoulder injury. The Colts have found it hard to replace Luck since his retirement.

The Indianapolis Colts have tried veterans like Jacoby Brissett, Philip Rivers, Carson Wentz and Matt Ryan in the QB role, but none of them have proven good enough in solving the crucial problem that has negatively affected the team’s results over the years.

Quarterbacks Prospects in the 2023 NFL draft

CJ Stroud and Bryce Young at Heisman event

It's now becoming evident that the Indianapolis Colts will have to replace Andrew Luck the way they got him. The 2023 NFL draft is around the corner and there seem to be a number of quarterback prospects who might be capable of providing a lasting solution for the Colts.

Bryce Young has been touted as the best draft prospect who could solve the Colts' quarterback problem. However, the Heisman Trophy winner is widely expected to be a top pick. The Colts hold the fourth pick in the 2023 draft, which means Young could be selected by then.

There are, however, other brilliant quarterback prospects available for selection in the draft, which include CJ Stroud, Anthony Richardson and Will Levis. It's now almost certain that one of these four will be selected by the Colts as their first pick in the draft.

It's now left to whether Shane Steichen will be able to nurture any of them into becoming a top quarterback in the NFL, as he has previously done. With Jim Bob Cooter also appointed as the team's offensive coordinator, it's safe to say that whoever is selected by the Indianapolis Colts is in safe hands.