Daniel Jones approaches free agency next month following a season cut short by a torn Achilles. The Indianapolis Colts now face a pivotal decision on whether to commit long-term to the veteran signal-caller. A new report outlines the front office’s specific plan, coming just days after a top teammate publicly urged management to get a deal done.

“The Colts plan to open talks soon with Daniel Jones on a multi-year deal to keep him in Indianapolis,” reported Tom Pelissero, via Ian Rapoport on X. “Jones got to Indy last year. A one-year contract, was playing his best football in the first half of the season until he suffered injuries, including a torn Achilles, and is rehabbing right now.”

“I am told Jones wants to be in Indianapolis, the Colts want to work out a deal,” Pelissero added. “If they can, the franchise tag would be an option. But either way the plan is, Jones stays in Indianapolis.”

During the 2025 season, the quarterback became a pillar in the franchise’s offense. In the first eight games, the Colts were 7-1. Jones threw 13 touchdown passes with just three interceptions in that span.

Unfortunately, the quarterback fractured the fibula in his left leg prior to Week 12. He gritted through the injury initially but suffered a torn Achilles tendon against the Jaguars in Week 14.

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He finished the season with an 8-5 record. After he was sidelined, Indianapolis lost its next four games to close the year on a seven-game losing streak. Despite the collapse, the quarterback boasted a 100.2 passer rating and a 68% pass completion rate.

His one-year contract earned him a base salary of $14 million. Following such performance, people can expect the number to increase.

Both the franchise and the player seem to be on the same page. They will be hoping to reach an agreement before mid-March. While there seems to be positive news for the Indy fans, wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. had a message for the quarterback.

Michael Pittman Jr. has an opinion on Daniel Jones

Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. sent a strong message to the front office just a few days ago regarding Jones’s toughness. Revealing that Jones played through a significant injury before his season ended, Pittman did not mince words.

“I don’t know a lot of guys that can play through a broken leg,” Pittman stated. “Like it wasn’t just — I might be saying too much — it was really broken. Nothing light. I’ve seen those scans and was like ‘oh s***.’ He’s a tough guy, and we definitely need that.”

Pittman’s analysis is absolutely spot on. Despite having a fractured fibula, Jones accounted for 38 of 65 passes for 442 passing yards, four touchdowns, and only one interception in three games.

This highlights his mental and physical toughness. However, his rushing became limited as he only went for 21 yards in five carries. Nonetheless, he was impressive throughout the season.

The WR wishes for the Colts to re-sign the quarterback. Pittman emphasized that the locker room is behind Jones returning.

“I think that that’s wise, because everybody loves Dan,” Pittman said.

Things may be a bit difficult considering the injury situation and what valuation the Colts believe in. However, Colts GM Chris Ballard believes things will go smoothly.

“I feel very good about Daniel Jones and where he’s at, where he’s going,” Ballard said. “Yes, he’s got the Achilles, but I think Daniel Jones has got a really bright future here in Indianapolis.”

“And look, there is some comfort knowing that, ‘Okay, we know we’ve got a guy that’s proven, that’s done it, and done some really good things,’” Ballard continued. “So, that does give you some confidence.”

Now, it remains to be seen how things turn out in Indianapolis. With free agency a month away, both parties may need to hurry.