Indianapolis Colts to Hold Daniel Jones Through Trade Deadline

Quarterback Daniel Jones will remain with the Indianapolis Colts through the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday, according to a report by Tom Pelissero. The decision keeps Jones in Indianapolis for the remainder of the current roster construction window, even as the team evaluates other assets.

The assurance comes as the Colts navigate a difficult season with a 2-7 record. Indianapolis has already executed two high-profile trades, sending offensive lineman Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers. Those moves have kept the franchise active in the market, but the reported decision on Jones effectively removes the quarterback from immediate consideration for a deadline exchange.

Attention on the roster has shifted to other key players. Running back Jonathan Taylor remains a focal point following the Colts' 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Wide receiver Josh Downs and defensive lineman Grover Stewart are also potential candidates to be moved as the deadline approaches.

Jones has faced scrutiny for his play this season, ranking among the league's worst quarterbacks. His supporting cast has also dealt with challenges, most notably the extended absence of wide receiver Alec Pierce. Pierce missed nearly the entire season after aggravating an ankle injury that required offseason surgery. Consequently, Keenan Allen leads the team with 40 receptions, while Downs has accumulated a team-high 354 receiving yards.

Minnesota emerged as a potential destination for Jones because he spent time on the Vikings' practice squad two seasons ago. The Vikings are currently starting Carson Wentz on Monday while Kyler Murray deals with a hamstring injury. However, the specific teams that contacted Indianapolis about Jones have not been identified.

Financial factors also weigh on the team's strategy. Jones signed a two-year extension worth $88 million during the past offseason. The Colts could exit the agreement after this season, but doing so would leave $35.2 million in dead cap space. The team also lacks its first-round draft pick due to last season's Sauce Gardner trade.

The reported assurance concerns the approaching deadline rather than a long-term commitment for next season. Keeping Jones as a placeholder remains a possibility, but the immediate decision addresses the current trade window.