Last year's season-ending injury to Daniel Jones was perhaps the biggest blow to the Indianapolis Colts' playoff hopes. Now, one transition tag and extension later, the Colts are back for their 2026 offseason, and all eyes are on the veteran quarterback.

Jones recently proved his value to the franchise by signing a massive two-year, $88 million contract extension. His return is the biggest storyline in Indianapolis, and head coach Shane Steichen couldn't be happier with the progress his quarterback has made.

"He's done a h***of a job with his rehab," Steichen said. "He's been tirelessly working at it. He's been in here every day, 8 to 3 o'clock. I know he's trying to hit certain landmarks, and he's on a good path with that."

This comeback follows a devastating injury that cut his previous season short. On December 7, during a Week 13 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Colts were 8-4 heading into the game, projected to make the postseason.

Jones dropped back to pass in the first quarter and took a painful, awkward step on the slippery, rain-soaked turf. He collapsed shortly after, clutching the back of his lower right leg in what was later confirmed to be a season-ending Achilles tear. 

Now, on the back of his career, 2nd-best numbers (3,101 yards and 19 passing touchdowns), and under a new contract, all eyes will be on the quarterback as he steps back into action.

With his hard work paying off, the team fully expects him to be leading the offense when the 2026 season officially kicks off, especially with the new contract deal in action.

GM Chris Ballard Comments on Daniel Jones' Progress

The Indianapolis Colts are placing a massive bet on Daniel Jones, locking him in with a two-year deal. It’s a major show of faith for a guy who was originally brought in just to provide some veteran competition.

General Manager Chris Ballard recently shed light on what Jones' progress looks like, ahead of the 2026 season.

"He's throwing, he's moving, and so he's in a really good spot," Ballard said, "Final timeline – we're all shooting for Week 1 for sure, but we'll kind of let his body dictate (it)."

Having Jones ready for Week 1 would be a massive boost for the Colts, considering that the shot-caller helped them to a three-game winning streak at the beginning of the 2025 season.

Now, the big question is whether his body will cooperate. Jones has already told Pat McAfee he’s aiming to be back by Week 1.

"I'm fired up to be back and definitely grateful for the opportunity to be back, and here with the Colts, I wanted to be back," Jones said about a month ago. "The transition tag, that whole process was interesting, but I always wanted to be here and had faith it would work out."

By committing this kind of money, the Colts would surely want a healthy Jones to finally help the franchise to a first playoff appearance since the 2020 season.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote