Report: Daniel Jones 'expected to sign' with Indianapolis Colts

One of the more important dominoes has fallen among free agent NFL quarterbacks. Former New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings signal-caller Daniel Jones is headed to Indianapolis, expected to sign with the Colts.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported the news on Tuesday: “Vikings QB Daniel Jones is expected to sign with the #Colts, sources tell me and @TomPelissero,” Rapoport posted on X. “It’s a one-year deal and the parties are finalizing it. While Minnesota was a strong option, Jones opts to compete with Anthony Richardson in Indy.”

Moreover, the deal is a one-year agreement, per Pelissero, and worth up to $17.7 million. He’ll certainly have a chance to compete for and potentially win the job, as third-year quarterback Anthony Richardson attempts to stake his claim.

Jones was released midseason by the Giants in 2024, following a rollercoaster tenure with the team that included just one playoff berth. With injuries, lack of success and overall bad roster management, Jones was practically set up to fail in New York, according to some.

After he was released, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings on a practice squad deal for the remainder of the season. He didn’t see extended playing time. In 10 games overall this past season, Jones amassed 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns, seven interceptions and a 63.3% completion percentage to go along with a 2-8 record as the Giants’ starter. 

A former first round pick out of Duke, Jones finished his Giants career with a 24-44-1 record and 70 touchdown passes to go along with 47 interceptions. New York took on a $22.21 million dead cap hit in 2025 when they cut him. They’re still looking for their long-term replacement.

Meanwhile, the Colts have been in the market for a quarterback to compete with Richardson, after a myriad of questions arose during the former first-rounder’s sophomore season in the NFL. He was benched for veteran Joe Flacco at various points in 2024. Consistent quarterback play was tough to come by for Indianapolis with either player under center.

Moving forward, Jones will have a chance to compete for a starting gig with the Colts, instead of living on borrowed time in Minnesota. The Vikings will be J.J. McCarthy’s team, and it’s evident they want him to be their unquestioned leader. It’s no wonder why Jones chose to join Indianapolis instead.

If Daniel Jones can stay healthy, he’ll likely enter the best situation he’s been in as a starting quarterback with the Colts, provided he beats Anthony Richardson out for the job. Perhaps he’ll rejuvenate his career in the AFC South, after a tough 2024 campaign for the former ACC thrower.