Indianapolis Colts Listen to Trade Offers for Daniel Jones Ahead of Deadline
The Indianapolis Colts have engaged in trade discussions regarding quarterback Daniel Jones ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, ESPN reported. Indianapolis has received calls from multiple teams inquiring about trading for Jones and has been willing to listen to any offers, league sources told NFL Network and ESPN.
The Baltimore Ravens checked in on Jones before opting to trade for former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett. The Minnesota Vikings have also been included in speculation as a team with a history involving Jones and a Super Bowl-caliber defense.
Colts Weigh Benching Jones to Avoid 2027 Guarantee
The Colts sit at 2-6 and are exploring moves to acquire draft capital and reduce financial risks. Jones carries a $10.51 million injury guarantee for the 2027 season that becomes fully guaranteed on March 15 if he remains on the roster. Should Indianapolis fall out of playoff contention, the team might bench Jones to avoid risking that financial guarantee.
Jones signed a two-year, $88 million contract in March that included a $44 million signing bonus. Alternatively, Jones could choose to waive the $10.51 million injury guarantee if he wants to play for another franchise, according to sources.
Coach Shane Steichen Addresses the Starting Lineup
Colts coach Shane Steichen offered a vote of confidence for Jones this week. Steichen stated that “Daniel gives us the best chance to win right now,” though his choice of the phrase “right now” opened discussions about the team’s future plans.
Jones is slated to start Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Meanwhile, other franchises continue monitoring the situation as quarterback injuries mount across the league.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Daniel Jones Trade Rumors
Why are the Colts willing to trade Daniel Jones now?
The 2-6 Colts are interested in gathering additional draft capital and reducing financial risks tied to future salary guarantees. Indianapolis has preferred to wait until this week to evaluate potential trade offers while remaining open to conversations.
What impact does the 2027 contract guarantee have on the decision?
Jones has a $10.51 million injury guarantee for the 2027 season that becomes fully guaranteed on March 15 if he remains on the roster. If the team falls out of playoff contention, benching or trading him prevents the franchise from exposing itself to that financial risk.
Which teams have shown interest in trading for Jones?
The Baltimore Ravens checked in on the Colts before trading for Jacoby Brissett, and the Minnesota Vikings have been mentioned in speculation due to their defensive roster and past ties to Jones.
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