Colts Explore Veteran QB Options Amid Daniel Jones Contract Impasse

Indianapolis may turn to four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins if they can't reach a deal with Daniel Jones.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 2:23pm

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The Indianapolis Colts are facing an impasse in contract negotiations with quarterback Daniel Jones, who is seeking more money than the team expected to pay. With Jones' future uncertain, the Colts are exploring veteran quarterback options, including a potential move for four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons.

Why it matters

The Colts are aiming to make a playoff push in 2026, so finding a reliable starting quarterback is crucial. Losing Jones would be a significant setback, making the Cousins option an intriguing contingency plan.

The details

According to reports, Jones and the Colts are "not close to coming to terms on a new contract," with the quarterback seeking more money than the team anticipated. This has led the Colts to consider using the transition or franchise tag on Jones, while also exploring other veteran options like Cousins. The 37-year-old Cousins is seeking a commitment to be a team's starting quarterback, which could appeal to the Colts if they can't retain Jones.

  • The NFL Scouting Combine took place last week, where the Colts' quarterback situation came into focus.
  • The Colts have until March 14 to decide whether to use the transition or franchise tag on Daniel Jones.

The players

Daniel Jones

The Colts' current starting quarterback, who is seeking a new contract with more money than the team expected to pay.

Kirk Cousins

A four-time Pro Bowl quarterback currently with the Atlanta Falcons, who is expected to be a free agent target for the Colts if they can't retain Jones.

Chris Ballard

The Indianapolis Colts' general manager, who is leading the team's efforts to re-sign Daniel Jones or find a new starting quarterback.

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What they’re saying

“I'm told the representatives for Daniel Jones and the Colts are not close to coming to terms on a new contract. Evidently, Jones wants more money than the Colts expected.”

— Tony Pauline, Essentially Sports

“Maybe that's the Vikings. Maybe it's the Colts if something happens with Daniel Jones. Maybe it's nobody for a while, and Cousins waits the market out, or even for a potential training camp injury over the summer.”

— Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated

What’s next

The Colts have until March 14 to decide whether to use the transition or franchise tag on Daniel Jones, which would give them more time to work out a long-term deal or explore other quarterback options like Kirk Cousins.

The takeaway

The Colts' quarterback situation is a critical offseason priority, as they aim to build a playoff contender in 2026. Retaining Daniel Jones is the preferred outcome, but the team may need to get creative, including potentially pursuing a veteran like Kirk Cousins, if they can't reach an agreement with their current starter.