Key to the Indianapolis Colts’ success in 2026 will be quarterback Daniel Jones, who is coming off an Achilles tear. If he can pick up where he left off early last season, Indy could compete for the AFC South title. If he struggles, the campaign could be a shambles.
Heading into training camp, Jones continues to trend in the right direction.
The quarterback took part in ESPN’s telecast of the NFL FLAG Championship on Sunday in Westfield, Indiana, and gave a quick update on his recovery.
“I feel good. Really good,” Jones said. “Excited to get going. We announce tomorrow (Monday), first practice on Wednesday, so good to go. I’m excited to get rolling.”
Earlier this month, Jones said at youth camp that he was allowed to “do everything” when camp opened, so Sunday’s comment follows that line. During OTAs and June minicamp, the QB participated in 7-on-7 and individual drills, but was kept out of all team officials. It looks like he won’t have any restrictions when things kick off this week.
Before Jones appeared on the broadcast, Colts head coach Shane Steichen was asked about the progress of Jones, who also attended the FLAG Championships.
“He looks good. He’s hit the rehab process as good as it gets,” Steichen said. “He will be a full participant.”
Getting practice this summer was step one. Being completely cleared at the start of training camp is a big step 2. However, the biggest hurdle remains: Looking 100% on the court.
The Colts put all their eggs in the Jones basket this offseason, signing him to a two-year deal and refusing to add an experienced veteran backup.
The club and Jones have been extremely positive about the recovery throughout the season. However, given the nature of the injury, there are still questions about whether the QB will be able to bounce back quickly, whether he can push off that injured leg, whether his accuracy would suffer early in the season and whether he will be as mobile as he once was. We won’t have any answers to these questions until camp gets underway.