Though the 2026 NFL Draft is only days away, teams continue evaluating players already on their rosters. After a busy free-agency period, clubs have begun workouts to assess their lineups.
The Indianapolis Colts stayed active during the opening week of free agency. They retained wide receiver Alec Pierce and used the franchise tag on quarterback Daniel Jones.
Jones has been recovering from an Achilles injury since late last season, which raised questions about his availability early in the year. Now, the Colts have provided an encouraging update. Head coach Shane Steichen told the media that Jones has already resumed dropping back and throwing at this stage of his recovery.
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Achilles injuries often require a long, grueling rehab process. However, Jones appears ahead of schedule, marking a significant development according to Steichen.
Back in the game
This progress is a major boost for both Jones and the Colts. Without the eighth-year veteran out of Duke University, the team collapsed late in the season and missed the playoffs. Jones had guided the Colts to a 7–1 start and appeared on track for a career resurgence after joining the team following his 2024 stint with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Colts’ momentum shifted after a tough road loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Four games later, Jones’ season ended prematurely after an injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Now, the Colts aim to reestablish themselves as contenders in the AFC South, but they will need a healthy Jones to do so. The organization remains committed to negotiating a long-term deal with him.
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In 13 games with Indianapolis, Jones threw 19 touchdowns to just eight interceptions, surpassed 3,000 passing yards, and added five rushing scores.
Before his time in Minnesota, Jones entered the league as a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, selected by the New York Giants. He spent six seasons in New York and earned a significant contract following his playoff run in 2022.
He fell out of favor with the Giants two years later and ultimately parted ways with the team in a mutual decision. Now, he stands as a central piece of the Colts’ future.