Colts GM Hints Daniel Jones Could Be Part of Team’s Long-Term Plans

Daniel Jones left a great impression on the Colts organization, winning 8 games before the Achilles injury.

Colts GM Hints Daniel Jones Could Be Part of Team’s Long-Term Plans

Daniel Jones (Image via IMAGO)

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Daniel Jones’ journey with the Indianapolis Colts might still have a few exciting chapters yet to unfold. Colts general manager Chris Ballard provided a positive response when asked about Jones’ future with the club.

Ballard and head coach Shane Stiechen were the ones to persuade Jones to sign a one-year deal with the Colts ahead of the 2025 season. He was added as an insurance policy behind the 2023 first-round draft pick, Anthony Richardson.

That being said, Steichen kept the quarterback battle open throughout the offseason. Jones emerged victorious, and Steichen made him the starter. The decision proved to be the correct move as the Colts went 8-1. Jones was the frontrunner for not just the NFL Comeback Player of the Year but also the league MVP.

However, the Colts hit rock bottom not long after. Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury while playing against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This one development completely derailed the Colts’ season. They went from being the best team in the AFC to finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs altogether.

Jones will become a free agent in the next few months when his one-year, $14 million contract expires. He will be free to explore his options, but at the top of his shopping list should be the Colts.

During a recent media day, Ballard hinted that the Colts’ higher-ups aren’t against the idea of running it back with Jones in 2026.

I think Daniel [Jones] has a really bright future here in Indianapolis. I think [a return is] mutual on both sides. I think Daniel was a really good fit for this organization, and I think this organization and city were a really good fit for Daniel.

Chris Ballard said (H/T: Sports Illustrated)

Daniel Jones or Anthony Richardson? The Colts have a decision to make in the offseason

If Jones comes back as QB1, what does that mean for Richardson, who’ll have just one year remaining on his rookie deal? The Florida graduate has talent and the build to be a star in the NFL. Unfortunately, he has constantly battled injuries and freak accidents.

Colts GM Hints Daniel Jones Could Be Part of Team’s Long-Term Plans
Daniel Jones (Image via IMAGO)

Richardson waited for his turn last year, but when it came, he wasn’t available. A locker room incident left him with just one good eye. The Colts placed him on injured reserve and turned to rookie Riley Leonard. When Leonard had trouble adapting to the league’s pace, Steichen unretired 44-year-old Philip Rivers.

Ballard hasn’t given up on Richardson just yet. In fact, he praised Richardson for being a great teammate.

[AR’s] a great teammate. He never sulked, never complained, was doing a great job as a backup quarterback, and then had a freak accident in the locker room.

Chris Ballard said

Leonard’s part of the quarterback conversation as well. Richardson remains the QB2, but if he can’t win over the coaches in the next offseason, Leonard will move ahead of him.

I’m very encouraged by Riley Leonard…I do think there’s something there. If Anthony [Richardson] doesn’t get to where we think he can be, Leonard QB2?

Ballard said

Daniel Jones wants to play for the Colts

Jones was overvalued by his former team, the New York Giants. The Giants agreed to a $44 million AAV contract, among the highest before QB salaries exploded into $50 million. Jones’ contract closed the doors on Saquon Barkley, who left and won a Super Bowl ring in Philly.

Meanwhile, injuries and inconsistent performances threaten Jones’ future in the Big Apple. Eventually, he left midway through 2024 and spent the backend of the season in Minnesota. The Colts picked him up, and he raced to an 8-5 record prior to the injury.

Jones should completely recover around the second phase of the OTAs. After that, he aims to restart training with the Colts.

I’d love to be back here. I’ve enjoyed being here, working with the coaching staff here, the players. I think it’s a great organization and I’ve enjoyed being here. Obviously, there’s a business side to it, and I understand that.

Daniel Jones said (H/T: FOX 59)

Jones accumulated 261 completions (68%) for 3101 passing yards (third time in his career), 19 passing touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. He further added 164 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns on 45 carries.

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