For the Colts’ Week 18 game against the Texans, rookie quarterback Riley Leonard is expected to start, with the usual offensive starters around him unless there are very late-breaking changes.

Expected Week 18 Starters

According to the latest depth charts and opponent scouting notes, the Colts’ projected starting offense for Week 18 vs. Houston is:

  • QB: Riley Leonard
  • RB: Jonathan Taylor
  • WR: Michael Pittman Jr.
  • WR: Alec Pierce
  • WR (slot): Josh Downs
  • TE: Tyler Warren (with Mo Alie‑Cox mixing in)
  • LT: Bernhard Raimann
  • LG: Quenton Nelson
  • C: Tanor Bortolini
  • RG: Matt Goncalves
  • RT: Jalen Travis

On defense, the core front and secondary remain led by players like DeForest Buckner (if active), Grover Stewart, Laiatu Latu, and Sauce Gardner, aligned with the most recent depth charts.

Quarterback Situation

Riley Leonard is set for his first start in the regular-season finale, with rookie Seth Henigan elevated from the practice squad to serve as his backup. Philip Rivers is listed as the third quarterback option, though reports note his game availability is uncertain. This setup reflects the Colts’ focus on evaluating young quarterbacks in a game without playoff implications.

Small Note of Caution

All of this is based on the latest publicly available depth chart and Week 18 reporting, which can change with late injuries, coach’s decisions, or inactives announced close to kickoff. For absolutely final information, game- day inactives and the official team channels shortly before kickoff give the last word on who will start for the Colts.