Indianapolis Colts give massive injury update on Daniel Jones
Though the 2026 NFL Draft is only days away, teams continue evaluating players already on their rosters. After a busy free-agency period, clubs have begun workouts to assess their lineups. The Indianapolis Colts stayed active during the opening week of free agency.
They retained wide receiver Alec Pierce and used the franchise tag on quarterback Daniel Jones. Jones has been recovering from an Achilles injury since late last season, which raised questions about his availability early in the year. Now, the Colts have provided an encouraging update.
Head coach Shane Steichen told the media that Jones has already resumed dropping back and throwing at this stage of his recovery. MORE: Steelers NFL Draft rumors start to swirl following head coach Mike McCarthy’s comments Achilles injuries often require a long, grueling rehab process. However, Jones appears ahead of schedule, marking a significant development according to Steichen.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) stands on the field during the National Anthem before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images Back in the game This progress is a major boost for both Jones and the Colts. Without the eighth-year veteran out of Duke University, the team collapsed late in the season and missed the playoffs.
Jones had guided the Colts to a 7–1 start and appeared on track for a career resurgence after joining the team following his 2024 stint with the Minnesota Vikings. The Colts’ momentum shifted after a tough road loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Four games later, Jones’ season ended prematurely after an injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars.