The Indianapolis Colts have moved decisively to secure the future of their quarterback, Daniel Jones, by agreeing to a new two-year contract that could be worth up to $100 million. This deal, confirmed by a source to the Associated Press on Wednesday, underscores the team's commitment to Jones despite a season marred by significant injuries.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Under the terms of the agreement, Daniel Jones is set to receive $88 million over the next two seasons, with $50 million guaranteed. Additionally, he has the opportunity to earn an extra $12 million through performance-based incentives. This contract reflects the Colts' confidence in his abilities and potential to lead the team forward.
Promising Start and Injury Setbacks
Jones made a strong impression in his debut season with the Colts, guiding the offense to an impressive 8-2 start. However, his momentum was derailed by a series of unfortunate injuries. After the bye week, he played through a hairline fracture in his left leg, only to suffer a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in early December.
His availability for the upcoming season opener in September remains uncertain, though Colts general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen have expressed optimism that Jones will be able to participate in training camp. This injury history is not new for Jones, who was limited to just six games in 2023 and started 10 games for the New York Giants in 2024 before being benched and released.
Statistical Performance and Team Dynamics
Despite these challenges, Jones found a successful fit in Indianapolis. Last season, he completed 68% of his passes for 3,101 yards, marking his highest total since leading the Giants to the playoffs in 2022. He also threw 19 touchdown passes, his best since 2019, with eight interceptions, showcasing his potential when healthy.
The Colts have prioritized keeping key players, with Ballard highlighting the re-signing of Jones and receiver Alec Pierce as top offseason goals. Pierce, who led all NFL qualifiers in yards per reception in 2024 and 2025, recently signed a four-year deal worth $116 million. The strong on-field rapport between Jones and Pierce has been a driving factor, leading the Colts to trade longtime No. 1 receiver Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a late-round draft pick.
Backup Quarterback Considerations
In related moves, the Colts have granted permission for Anthony Richardson to seek a trade. Richardson, the No. 4 overall draft pick in 2023, lost the starting job to Jones in training camp last season and later suffered an eye injury in a pregame accident, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. This development suggests Indianapolis may still be in the market for a backup quarterback to bolster their roster depth.
Overall, this contract extension signals the Colts' belief in Daniel Jones as a cornerstone of their franchise, despite the injury risks, as they aim to build a competitive team for the future.
