Jones delivered a breakout 2025 campaign, throwing for 3,101 yards and 19 touchdowns in 13 games and adding 164 rushing yards with five rushing scores. He won the starting job on a one-year deal, partnering with Anthony Richardson before injuries disrupted his season.
Midseason reports indicated Jones played through a fibula fracture, and his performance noticeably declined after that news, culminating in a torn Achilles that could threaten his availability early in the 2026 season.
The decision on Jones is complicated by his injury risk, but Pereles notes the Colts’ recent aggressive moves—most notably trading two first-round picks for Sauce Gardner at the trade deadline—as evidence they’re all-in on Jones and will attempt to extend the relationship.
Beyond Jones, Indianapolis faces free agency at several other positions, including right tackle Braden Smith and wide receiver Alec Pierce. Pereles projects Smith likely to be re-signed, while Pierce could depart in the coming weeks.
In sum, Jones’s value remains strong when he’s healthy, but the Achilles injury adds a notable layer of risk to any long-term commitment. The Colts’ offseason strategy will hinge on whether they can secure a contract that aligns with their high-end expectations for the quarterback.
