The Indianapolis Colts have placed the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones, marking a rare NFL strategy not seen since 1996.
Understanding the Transition Tag
This move differs from the standard franchise tag. It offers Jones $37.8 million, lower than the $43.9 million franchise tag amount. The tag permits Jones to negotiate long-term contracts with other teams. If he signs elsewhere, the Colts hold the right to match the offer. Declining to match would mean losing Jones without draft compensation.
The Atlanta Falcons last used this tag in 1996 on quarterback Jeff George, a former Colt.
Jones’ Performance and Injury Setback
After a difficult exit from the New York Giants in 2024, Jones excelled with the Colts in 2025 on a one-year, $14 million deal. The team stood at 8-4 when he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7.
The injury derailed both Jones and the Colts, who dropped six straight games and missed the playoffs.
Ongoing Contract Talks and Backup Changes
Jones currently negotiates a long-term extension with the Colts, who value his contributions when healthy.
Meanwhile, backup quarterback Anthony Richardson and the Colts mutually agree to pursue a trade this offseason. Injuries limited Richardson to 17 games over three years. In 2024, he completed just 47.7% of his passes. Last season, he appeared in two games, throwing two passes and completing one, before a fractured orbital bone sidelined him from mid-October.
The Colts view 2025 sixth-round pick Riley Leonard as a viable backup option, reducing opportunities for Richardson next season.
