If the Indianapolis Colts are serious about stabilizing their quarterback situation heading into the 2026 season, they may need to get creative. One potential option that's gaining traction: Mac Jones.
Yes, that Mac Jones-the former Patriots first-round pick who’s quietly rebuilt his value in San Francisco. After flaming out in New England, Jones found new life under Kyle Shanahan, stepping in when Brock Purdy missed time this season and delivering solid, efficient play.
In eight starts, Jones completed nearly 70% of his passes and posted a quarterback rating just shy of 100. For a guy many had written off, that’s more than a bounce-back-it’s a reintroduction.
Now, with Purdy entrenched as the 49ers’ starter and locked into a long-term deal that runs through 2030, Jones is essentially a high-end insurance policy in the Bay Area. And while that’s a luxury for San Francisco, it could be an opportunity for a QB-needy team like Indianapolis.
The Colts are staring down a murky quarterback outlook for Week 1 next season. Daniel Jones, who they brought in this year, is recovering from a torn Achilles.
There’s no guarantee he’ll be ready by September-or that he’ll even be re-signed. And while Anthony Richardson remains an intriguing long-term project, the team may not be ready to hand him the keys just yet.
That’s where Mac Jones enters the picture. He’s under contract through 2026 at a very team-friendly $2.8 million next year, and his recent play suggests he could run Shane Steichen’s offense effectively.
Stylistically, he’s not far off from Daniel Jones-similar arm strength, decent mobility-but with one major difference: health. While Daniel Jones has had three seasons derailed by injuries, Mac has largely stayed on the field.
It’s worth noting that Dan Graziano of ESPN floated the Colts and Steelers as two teams that could be in the market for a quarterback like Jones. Neither team has a locked-in answer under center for 2026, and both could be intrigued by a 27-year-old passer who’s been through the Shanahan quarterback rehab program-a system that’s helped revive more than one career. Just ask Sam Darnold.
But here’s where things get tricky: the price tag.
San Francisco isn’t desperate to move Jones, but they’d be wise to sell high if they can. After all, they’d prefer he never sees the field again-because that means Purdy is healthy and rolling.
So if they can flip Jones for a valuable asset, that’s a win. The question is: what would it take?
The Colts don’t have a first-round pick in either of the next two drafts. Those went to the Jets in the deal for Sauce Gardner.
So if the 49ers are seeking a third-rounder or better for Jones, Indianapolis might have to think twice. Giving up that kind of capital would thin out an already stretched draft class, and GM Chris Ballard-assuming he’s still in charge after this season-can’t afford to miss on what picks he has left.
Still, the idea of plugging in a steady, experienced quarterback like Jones while Richardson continues to develop has its appeal. It gives the Colts flexibility, stability, and maybe even a shot at competing in a division that remains wide open.
No one’s saying Mac Jones is the long-term answer. But as a bridge-or even a surprise success story-he might be exactly what the Colts need in 2026.