Colts QB Daniel Jones Shares Promising Recovery Update

Jones is working to return from a torn Achilles tendon in time for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:33pm

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones spoke on The Pat McAfee Show after signing a two-year, $100 million extension with the team. Jones is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered late in the 2025 season and is optimistic about being ready for Week 1 of the 2026 campaign.

Why it matters

The Colts are banking on Jones to be their long-term answer at quarterback, so his recovery from the Achilles injury is crucial to the team's success. If Jones can't return by Week 1, the Colts may need to explore other options at the position.

The details

Jones suffered the torn Achilles late in the 2025 season, which derailed what had been a promising start to the year. The Colts are confident in Jones' ability to bounce back, evidenced by the massive two-year extension they gave him. Jones is working closely with the team's medical staff to check off all the necessary boxes in his recovery process.

  • Jones suffered the torn Achilles tendon late in the 2025 season.
  • The Colts and Jones agreed to a two-year, $100 million contract extension on March 12, 2026.

The players

Daniel Jones

The Indianapolis Colts' starting quarterback who is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the 2025 season.

Riley Leonard

The Colts' backup quarterback who could be called upon if Jones is not ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

Anthony Richardson

The Colts' 23-year-old quarterback who is entering the final year of his rookie contract and could be a trade candidate if the team needs to add veteran depth at the position.

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What they’re saying

“My goal is to be back by Week 1 and be ready to go. I think that's what we're working towards. It should be able to be accomplished. It's all a process, and we'll keep checking the boxes and working with the guys here with the Colts. Feel good about that.”

— Daniel Jones (The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

The Colts will continue to monitor Jones' recovery progress throughout the offseason. If he is not able to participate in training camp, it would be a concerning sign for his availability in Week 1.

The takeaway

The Colts are betting big on Daniel Jones to be their franchise quarterback, and his successful recovery from a torn Achilles tendon will be crucial to the team's success in 2026. If Jones can't return by Week 1, the Colts may need to explore other options at the position.