Daniel Jones could command a nine‑figure contract in free agency if his season with the Indianapolis Colts holds up, according to league insiders. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and other evaluators said Jones has earned the right to be among the highest‑paid players available next spring.
Jones signed a one‑year deal with Indianapolis and has led his team to one of the NFL’s best records through the midpoint of the season. His efficiency and playmaking in a run‑heavy scheme have raised his market profile, leaving front offices to weigh whether he will test free agency or sign an extension. Industry comparisons include recent reclamation deals that topped the $100 million mark, setting a benchmark for what Jones might request.
Indianapolis Colts, Daniel Jones, NFL, ESPN
Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) warms up before a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Analysts projecting Jones’ price point cited similar contracts given to quarterbacks who revived their careers elsewhere. The logic is straightforward: teams seeking quarterback stability are willing to pay premium money to acquire a proven starter rather than gamble on the draft. That dynamic amplifies Jones’ leverage if he continues to produce late into the season and through the playoff window.
The Colts, however, appear committed to keeping Jones in Indianapolis. Club decision‑makers have signaled they are prepared to make a long‑term offer, and local reporting suggested the organization is “all in” on extending him. Team brass must balance a potential market‑setting deal against salary‑cap realities and concurrent needs across the roster, including offensive line and skill positions.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Reveals How Much Indianapolis Colts’ Daniel Jones Could Ask in Free Agency
Indianapolis Colts, Daniel Jones, NFL, ESPN
Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) warms up before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
As it stands, Jones may worth around $100 million if he hits free agency next year. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
Jones has a chance to become the biggest earner in the free agency class. The Colts appear all-in on keeping Jones long term, and they have comps for former top-10 picks who thrived when quarterbacking a new team: Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, who each earned three-year deals worth around $100 million. Jones would totally be justified asking for that … with interest.
Risk factors remain for both sides. Jones has a history of turnover and injury that could temper offers or push teams toward shorter, incentive‑laden contracts. Executives will scrutinize tape and performance in high‑leverage situations before writing big checks. Those details will shape the final market if Jones reaches March as a free agent.
Indianapolis Colts, Daniel Jones, NFL, ESPN
Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
How the franchise proceeds will influence other offseason moves. A long‑term deal for Jones could stabilize Indianapolis and shift resources; letting him enter the open market would trigger a bidding war that reshapes quarterback valuations. Expect intense negotiation headlines as the season closes and teams prepare contract strategies.
Indianapolis Colts, Daniel Jones, NFL, ESPN
Nov 9, 2025; Berlin, Germany; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) in action against the Atlanta Falcons during the NFL Berlin Game at Olympic Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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