Daniel Jones’ first season in Indianapolis didn’t just turn heads - it turned the Colts into a legitimate playoff threat. After winning the starting quarterback job over Anthony Richardson in the preseason, Jones gave the Colts a new identity under center.
And while injuries ultimately cut his breakout campaign short, his impact was undeniable. If he stays healthy, we’re probably talking about a Colts playoff run right now.
But here’s where things get interesting: Jones was on a one-year deal. Now, with free agency looming, the Colts have a decision to make. Or rather, had a decision to make.
According to reports, Indianapolis is already locked in on its next move - and it involves keeping Jones in a Colts uniform.
“The decision here has largely been made,” ESPN’s Stephen Holder reported. “The Colts are all-in on re-signing Jones after his one-year experiment with Indy in 2025 got off to a sizzling start before injuries ended it early.”
That early stretch? It was enough to convince the Colts that Jones is their guy.
He brought poise, command, and just enough playmaking to elevate the offense. And if not for a torn Achilles, we might be talking about a long-term megadeal already inked.
Instead, the injury complicates things. Jones is expected to return in time to play a significant portion of the 2026 season, but Achilles rehabs are notoriously tricky.
The timeline can shift, and so can the expectations. That uncertainty will likely shape how negotiations unfold.
“The Colts have some complicating factors to deal with, primarily their desire to run it back with a quarterback who is rehabbing a torn Achilles,” Holder wrote. “Jones’ injury status will likely impact contract negotiations on some level as the sides try to strike a deal.”
Translation: the Colts want him back - but they’ll have to be smart about how they structure the deal. Do you bet big on a QB coming off a major injury? Or do you hedge with incentives and flexibility?
There’s also the Richardson factor. The former top-five pick is still on the roster, and while Jones’ emergence put him on the back burner, the injury changes the dynamic.
If Jones were fully healthy, Richardson might be a trade chip. But with uncertainty around Jones’ return, the Colts may need both quarterbacks in the room - at least for now.
Still, the big takeaway here is clear: Daniel Jones isn’t just a rental. The Colts see him as a foundational piece, and they’re moving forward with that vision. Whether he’s fully ready for Week 1 or needs a little more time, Indianapolis is betting on a future led by “Indiana Jones.”
And after what we saw in 2025, it’s easy to understand why.