Daniel Jones is set to join the Indianapolis Colts on a one-year contract worth up to $17.7 million. The deal includes $13.15 million in guaranteed money, as reported by NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The former New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings quarterback will look to revitalize his career with the Colts, who are searching for a reliable option under center.
Jones’ Contract Offers Strong Financial Incentives and a Chance to Start
Jones’ contract includes a $6 million signing bonus, a $7.15 million guaranteed base salary, and $850,000 in active bonuses, which are tied to his availability for games. Additionally, he can earn up to $3.7 million in incentives based on his playing time, team success, and playoff appearances. This deal reflects the Colts’ willingness to invest in a quarterback who can provide competition and depth at the position.
Daniel Jones Joins Colts on One-Year Deal, Competing for Starting Quarterback Role (NFL)With this signing, Jones will compete with Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ 2023 first-round draft pick, for the starting quarterback position. General Manager Chris Ballard previously emphasized the need for “real competition” at the position, given Richardson’s struggles as a rookie. This opportunity presents Jones with a viable path to earning the starting role in Indianapolis.
Jones Looks to Rebound with Colts After Brief Stint with Vikings
Originally drafted sixth overall by the Giants in 2019, Jones played 69 games for them before being released in November 2023. He then signed with the Vikings’ practice squad and was later promoted to their active roster before the playoffs, though he did not appear in any games.
Minnesota seemed like a possible landing spot for Jones, but after signing Sam Darnold, the Vikings appear ready to move forward with their rookie quarterback, J.J. McCarthy.
Jones has a strong chance to revive his career with Indianapolis. His past performances show promise, including a 2022 season where he threw for 15 touchdowns and rushed for seven more.
Over his career, he has completed 64.1% of his passes for 14,582 yards and 70 touchdowns while also adding 2,179 rushing yards and 15 scores. If he can outperform Richardson in training camp, Jones could become the Colts’ starting quarterback for the 2024 season.
