Fans of the Indianapolis Colts couldn’t believe what they were hearing. Daniel Jones, or Danny Dimes as he had been known during his time with the New York Giants, had signed a free agent contract to compete with Anthony Richardson for the Colts' starting quarterback position.
To say expectations were low would be an understatement. His once-promising career with the Giants, who chose to extend his contract after reaching the playoffs in the 2022 season, ended rather unceremoniously. Poor play during the 2024 season led to his release, and many thought his career was over.
In Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season, he showed poise and leadership in guiding the Colts to a victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Indianapolis took the ball first, and Indiana Jones led the team down the field for a touchdown using 3:59 of game clock. The drive was capped off with an 8-yard touchdown pass to rookie tight end Tyler Warren.
Leaders learn from their mistakes, and Colts' Daniel Jones rebounded quickly without panic
This isn’t to say his play was flawless, as he threw an interception early in the second quarter. Jones was attempting to hit veteran tight end Mo Alie-Cox, but a Cardinals defender stepped in between to set up Arizona deep in Colts territory. He was bailed out by the defense, who intercepted Arizona quarterback Jacoby Brissett two plays later.
Jones would then lead the Colts down the field again, with running back Jonathan Taylor toting the football with power and speed. Midway through the second quarter, DJ took the snap and rolled out to his right, looking to connect with Taylor. When he saw the play wasn’t there, he didn’t panic and ran the ball into the endzone, putting the Colts back on top.
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Early in the fourth quarter, with Indianapolis down by seven, Jones again guided the team down the field. He connected with wide receiver Josh Downs for a five-yard touchdown to even the score at 24 apiece. Later in the fourth, with the Colts down by three, Jones connected with Alec Pierce on a 22-yard pass into Cardinals territory.
Six plays later, DJ had the Colts inside the Arizona five-yard line after connecting with Downs again. After a run by Taylor got the Colts closer to the endzone, Jones would toss the ball to JT on a rollout for what would prove to be the game-winning touchdown.
Daniel Jones showed poise and leadership in guiding the Colts to victory in Week 6. He minimized the mistakes and found his receivers when he needed them the most. Colts fans are no longer questioning if his signing was the right move. They are envisioning Indiana Jones leading the team to the playoffs and maybe a division title.