The Indianapolis Colts made a business decision with Daniel Jones. Knowing that he'd be highly coveted in free agency, they protected themselves by placing him under the transition tag. That gives them a chance to match any offer he gets.
Should he play under the tag, Jones would be slated to make $37.83 million. Given how overblown the current quarterback market is, that would be somewhat of a bargain, even with him coming off a season-ending injury. That's why his camp is pushing for a much higher $50 million annual salary.
Considering that, NFL analyst Pete Prisco had a somewhat interesting idea. Instead of going back and forth with Jones and his cap, Colts GM Chris Ballard could simply opt to let him walk and pivot to Kyler Murray instead.
Kyler Murray is an intiriguing possibility for the Indianapolis Colts
"You know what I would do? I'd take that tag off and let (Jones) walk. I'd go get Kyler Murray and pay him $1.5 million," said Prisco.
Of course, it's worth noting that this isn't a report. He's not saying that's what's going to happen, but it makes perfect sense when given some thought. Murray comes with injury risks and some red flags, but so does Jones.
Daniel Jones was playing the best football of his career last season, but he was also carried by an elite offensive line and the best running back in football. Shane Steichen's offense has been at least decent with every quarterback not named Anthony Richardson, so as much as this team clearly needs some continuity at the position, he can probably make things work with Murray as well.
Murray can sign for roughly $1.5 million because the Arizona Cardinals will still cover his salary for the season. He knows this might be his last chance to prove that he can be a starter, and the talent and physical tools are undeniable. He's an athletic freak who can scramble like the best of them, and his ability to throw on the run is simply otherworldly.
Even if that weren't the case, there are more than enough reasons to be hesitant about giving Jones such a massive contract. It didn't take long before the New York Giants regretted signing him to a long-term extension after a semi-breakout year in his first season with Brian Daboll.
Jones is coming off a major injury, but the signs of regression were there before that. In his two games before breaking his leg, he took 12 sacks and combined for two touchdowns, four interceptions, and six fumbles. There's a reason why the Minnesota Vikings also chose to let him walk after having him in the building last season.
Murray isn't a perfect quarterback by any means, and all reports about his character and work ethic will be worth keeping an eye on, for sure. Still, it's hard to believe that Daniel Jones can give them much more at such an astronomically different price tag. Former No. 1 picks who are still in their primes are seldom available, and that's definitely a risk worth taking.