The biggest question for the Indianapolis Colts has arguably been who they will sign to compete at quarterback with Anthony Richardson. Their beleaguered QB1 was said to be the presumptive starter for 2025, but general manager Chris Ballard then announced that Richardson would have to compete to keep his job. There were numerous candidates suggested, with Steelers backup quarterback Justin Fields initially thought to be one of the top choices.
But Rich Eisen later announced that the Minnesota Vikings' Daniel Jones was the favored candidate for the Colts, even going so far as to call it one of the league's juiciest rumors. And now, per Ian Rapoport, that rumor has officially come true: Daniel Jones is coming to Indianapolis.
"#Vikings QB Daniel Jones is expected to sign with the #Colts, sources tell me and [Tom Pelissero].Ian Rapoport
It’s a one-year deal and the parties are finalizing it. While Minnesota was a strong option, Jones opts to compete with Anthony Richardson in Indy."
Adam Schefter likewise confirmed the news, saying Jones was taking a one-year deal which would net him $14 million. Sources had been reported over the last 24 hours that the choice on whether to stay in Minnesota or leave for Indianapolis was ultimately up to Jones himself, as both teams wanted him.
There had likewise been questions as to whether or not Jones would want to come to Indianapolis and face the potential of being a backup quarterback, if Richardson does indeed improve enough in the offseason to keep his job. Whether Jones is comfortable remaining QB2 or if he's gambling on being able to beat Richardson isn't clear, but what is clear is that the choice to join the Colts was one that Jones made himself.
"Jones had a chance to return to Minnesota, but now becomes the challenger to the Colts’ former first-round pick Anthony Richardson."Adam Schefter
Jones is older than Richardson, but still young enough to have a decent future in front of him. Previously having played for the New York Giants, Jones had one breakout season in 2022, but has never quite managed to recapture that level of success.
The Colts now have two quarterbacks who both have something to prove going into 2025. Richardson may have struggled through the 2024 season, but he's already been putting in serious effort to improve. One thing is for sure: he's not going to give up his job to Daniel Jones without putting up a fight.