The Colts have been linked to ex-Giants QB Daniel Jones by a number of mainstream NFL media members recently.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Indianapolis Colts remain a ‘logical fit’ for Minnesota Vikings free agent quarterback Daniel Jones (via Underdog NFL):

It’s the third time that the Colts have been linked to Jones through a member of the mainstream NFL media—joining both Schefter’s ESPN colleague Jeremy Fowler and NFL Network’s Rich Eisen respectively.

Originally the 6th overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft, the 27-year-old Jones completed 216 of 341 pass attempts (63.3%) for 2,070 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions during 10 starts for the New York Giants (the team that selected him) in 2024 before being benched, declared a healthy inactive, waived, and then signed by the Vikings as a backup.

He also has 2,179 total rushing yards and 15 rush touchdowns during his 6-year pro career.

Once the $160 million man by the Giants as their franchise quarterback hopeful, Jones has been slowed by injuries, inconsistency, and turnovers in more recent seasons.

What I like about the former Duke standout is his dual-threat mobility and starting experience (with 69 career starts for the Giants)—meaning he’d provide a veteran who can help the Colts run a similar offensive play calling scheme regarding RPOs and the running game that they already deploy with projected third-year starter Anthony Richardson.

He’d also play behind a much stronger offensive line collectively with the Colts than he would with the much maligned group he recently finished with as a member of the Giants.

What I don’t like is that he suffers through some of the similar issues that already periodically plague Richardson: injuries, accuracy, inconsistency, and turnovers.

The Colts could theoretically do a bit better for a backup quarterback such as Justin Fields—albeit at a higher free agency cost, however, they could also do worse than Jones with the likes of free agents Trey Lance, Zach Wilson, and even now, ex-Colt Gardner Minshew.

From that standpoint, maybe that’s how the Colts will ultimately land on Jones as the guy—meaning he makes the most sense for the potential price-tag.

Colts Reportedly Eyeing Polarizing Free Agent QB to Compete with Anthony Richardson

The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly exploring the addition of a veteran quarterback to foster competition with Anthony Richardson for the starting role in the 2025 season.

General Manager Chris Ballard has emphasized the importance of creating a competitive environment to enhance team performance and Richardson’s development.

The presence of a seasoned quarterback can also serve as a mentorship avenue for Richardson, hopefully facilitating his transition into an effective starter.

Among the potential candidates, former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones has emerged as a notable option. Jones, a first-round pick in 2019, has experienced a decline in performance, leading to his release and subsequent stint on the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad. Despite these setbacks, the Colts view Jones as a quarterback capable of playing under head coach Shane Steichen’s guidance. ​

Jones’ mobility and prior flashes of excellence make him an intriguing option for the Colts. Reports indicate that both the Colts and the Cleveland Browns have expressed interest in Jones, with the potential for a starting role.

Another quarterback on the Colts’ radar is Justin Fields, who has shown dual-threat capabilities but has faced inconsistencies in his career. Fields’ athleticism and potential make him an intriguing candidate for Indianapolis. ​

The 2025 free-agent market offers additional quarterbacks who could fit the Colts. Other quarterbacks in the mix include Sam Darnold, Russell Wilson and Gardner Minshew.

The Colts’ pursuit of a veteran quarterback underscores their commitment to fostering a competitive atmosphere, aiming to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming 2025 season.​