The Indianapolis Colts concluded their 2025 season with significant underperformance, yet they have retained head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard despite a late-season decline. Now the team faces critical decisions regarding their quarterback position, with Daniel Jones at the center of their plans going into the 2026 offseason.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Colts intend to engage Daniel Jones in discussions about a multi-year contract following his strong showing last season.
Plans to Secure Jones Despite Injury Setbacks
Pelissero discussed the Colts’ quarterback strategy on The Insiders show, explaining that Indianapolis is preparing to open talks with Jones, who joined the team on a one-year deal last year. Jones had been performing at a high level during the first half of the 2025 season before suffering several injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon that currently requires rehabilitation.
Jones was even considered a candidate for the MVP award in October, as the Colts held an 8-2 record before their bye week and seemed firmly in control of their playoff prospects. However, multiple injuries in the latter half of the season, culminating in the Achilles injury, derailed that momentum.
Commitment to a Long-Term Relationship Remains, But Challenges Lie Ahead
Pelissero emphasized that both Jones and the Colts want to continue their partnership beyond this season, although contract negotiations may face difficulties.
“I am told Jones wants to be in Indianapolis [and] the Colts want to work out a deal,”
Pelissero stated.
“If they can’t, the franchise tag would be an option. But either way, the plan is Jones stays in Indy.”
With $35.60 million in salary cap space entering the offseason, and an additional $179.23 million expected for 2027, the Colts are financially positioned to offer Jones a long-term contract.
Draft Picks and Future Considerations Impact Contract Strategy
The Colts face a complex situation given that they traded away two first-round picks for cornerback Sauce Gardner at the 2025 trade deadline. This eliminates their first-round selections in both the upcoming spring draft and the 2027 NFL Draft, potentially influencing their long-term roster-building and contract flexibility.
Despite these challenges, Jones and Indianapolis appear closely connected for the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, fans await clarity on whether Jones will secure a long-term extension in the upcoming offseason or if the team opts to apply the franchise tag as a temporary measure.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo, and @JudyBattista: #Colts plan to open talks for Daniel Jones; #Bengals could franchise tag Trey Hendrickson; #Giants QB Russell Wilson’s future; #Cowboys will tag George Pickens, but could trade him. pic.twitter.com/R5lcNyorZY
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026
