Colts Sign QB Daniel Jones to Record-Breaking Contract Extension

Two-year deal worth up to $100 million signals team's commitment to quarterback despite recent injury concerns.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:21am

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The Indianapolis Colts have signed quarterback Daniel Jones to a record-breaking two-year contract extension worth up to $100 million. The deal includes $60 million in guaranteed money and represents the largest two-year contract in NFL history. Jones, who was previously on the transition tag, has emerged as the Colts' long-term solution at quarterback after leading the team to an 8-2 start last season before suffering a season-ending injury.

Why it matters

The Colts' willingness to offer Jones a lucrative, heavily guaranteed contract despite his recent Achilles injury demonstrates the team's confidence in his ability to bounce back and lead the franchise. This deal could set a new precedent for how teams value and compensate quarterbacks, especially those with injury histories, as they prioritize stability and performance over risk aversion.

The details

The two-year contract is worth $88 million, with the potential to reach $100 million through incentives. Jones will receive $50 million guaranteed at signing, with an additional $60 million guaranteed for injury. He's slated to earn $38 million in 2027, with $10 million of that guaranteed. The deal includes $60 million fully guaranteed overall, making it the largest two-year contract in NFL history.

  • The Colts initially applied the transition tag to Jones, which would have paid him $37.833 million for the 2026 season.
  • The Colts and Jones finalized the new contract extension on March 12, 2026.

The players

Daniel Jones

The Colts' starting quarterback who has emerged as the team's long-term solution at the position after leading them to an 8-2 start in 2025 before suffering a season-ending injury.

Anthony Richardson

The Colts' 2023 first-round draft pick who is currently seeking a trade, suggesting the team has confidence in Jones as their long-term quarterback.

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What’s next

The Colts will look to build around Daniel Jones as their franchise quarterback, while the future of Anthony Richardson with the team remains uncertain as he seeks a trade.

The takeaway

The Colts' record-breaking contract extension with Daniel Jones signals a growing trend in the NFL of teams prioritizing quarterback stability and performance over injury concerns, potentially setting a new precedent for how teams value and compensate the position going forward.