In a bold and unexpected move ahead of the 2025 NFL season, the Indianapolis Colts have signed quarterback Daniel Jones to a one-year deal worth $14 million, with incentives that could push the total value to $17.7 million. The signing marks a significant shift in the Colts’ quarterback strategy and sets the stage for a highly anticipated competition between Jones and second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Daniel Jones, originally drafted by the New York Giants in 2019, spent time with the Minnesota Vikings before becoming a free agent. His career has been marked by both potential and inconsistency. In 2022, he showed marked improvement in accuracy and decision-making, leading the Giants to a playoff win. However, injuries and performance issues limited his effectiveness in subsequent seasons. His tendency to take sacks and a lack of explosive plays have often overshadowed his athleticism and leadership qualities.
By bringing Jones to Indianapolis, the Colts are signaling a win-now mentality while still developing their young star, Anthony Richardson. Richardson, who showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie campaign, offers elite arm strength and dynamic rushing ability. However, his development was hampered by injuries and a learning curve typical of young quarterbacks. Colts General Manager Chris Ballard and Head Coach Shane Steichen have reiterated that the quarterback position is an open competition heading into training camp.
Steichen, known for his success developing quarterbacks like Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts, will be key in managing this quarterback dynamic. With his offensive expertise, the team is hopeful he can elevate the performance of both players. The coaching staff has emphasized that the best quarterback will play, whether it’s the seasoned Jones or the high-upside Richardson.
The Colts enter the 2025 season with a strong supporting cast. The offense features Pro Bowl running back Jonathan Taylor, All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson, and wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who recently signed a contract extension. On defense, linebacker Zaire Franklin anchors a talented unit that looks to improve on last year’s performance. The team finished 8–9 in 2024, narrowly missing the playoffs, and believes it is poised for a postseason run with the right quarterback under center.
The move to sign Daniel Jones reflects the front office’s desire to create competition and provide depth at a critical position. It also gives the team insurance in case Richardson suffers a setback or fails to progress as expected. For Jones, it’s an opportunity to revitalize his career with a talented roster and a creative coaching staff.
The Colts will open the 2025 season on September 7 against the Miami Dolphins, a matchup that may feature either Jones or Richardson leading the offense. Regardless of who starts, this quarterback situation will be one of the league’s most closely watched storylines. With high stakes and big expectations, the Colts’ gamble on Daniel Jones could either spark a playoff push or further complicate their long-term plans at quarterback.
