The Indianapolis Colts have placed the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones, the team announced Tuesday, keeping him under contract for the 2026 season while he recovers from a torn Achilles.
Jones will earn a fully guaranteed $37.833 million under the one-year tender. The transition tag gives the Colts the right of first refusal on any offer Jones receives from another team but does not provide compensation if he signs elsewhere, unlike the exclusive or non-exclusive franchise tags.
It’s a rare move: the transition tag is seldom used, and no quarterback has received it since Jeff George in 1996. George eventually signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons after holding out into training camp.
Jones and Indianapolis continue to explore a long-term extension, with both sides having until July 15 to finalize a deal, according to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
The 26-year-old quarterback joins the Colts while recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in December. He previously played through a broken fibula last season before the injury ended his campaign early. His status makes it uncertain whether he will be ready for the 2026 season opener.
Last season, the Colts relied on retired veteran Philip Rivers and rookie Riley Leonard to fill in for Jones. Leonard performed admirably, suggesting Indianapolis could open the season with him under center while Jones rehabilitates. With fellow quarterback Anthony Richardson requesting a trade, the Colts may add depth at the position this offseason.
General manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen have made it clear that Jones remains their chosen leader moving forward.
Originally drafted sixth overall by the New York Giants in 2019, Jones endured a turbulent tenure in New York marked by injuries, inconsistent play, and coaching changes. After a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings without seeing game action, he signed a one-year deal with the Colts last offseason, winning the starting job over Richardson.
Jones thrived in Indianapolis, helping the Colts start 7-1 and finishing his abbreviated season completing 261 of 384 passes (a career-best 68% completion rate) for 3,101 yards, 19 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and five rushing touchdowns. Despite a late-season decline that led to an 8-9 finish, Jones’ performance reinforced the Colts’ confidence in him as their franchise quarterback.
