The Indianapolis Colts have placed the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones, according to league sources, securing his rights for the 2026 season at a $37.833 million tender.
This move is more than $6 million less expensive than the full franchise tag for quarterbacks, while still giving the Colts the right to match any offer sheet Jones might sign with another team.
Jan 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen walks the sidelines in the first quarter as the Colts played against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Jan 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen walks the sidelines in the first quarter as the Colts played against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Indianapolis Colts Place Transition Tag on QB Daniel Jones: $37.833M Tender Opens Door for Negotiations
By applying the transition tag to Daniel Jones, the Indianapolis Colts retain control over their starting quarterback without committing to the higher franchise tag number. The transition tag allows Jones to negotiate freely with other teams and potentially sign an offer sheet, but Indianapolis would then have the opportunity to match that deal and keep him on the roster.
The Indianapolis Colts’ decision reflects a balanced approach: protecting their investment in Daniel Jones while preserving flexibility under the salary cap. Daniel Jones, who joined the Colts after his time with the New York Giants, has shown flashes of playmaking ability, and the team clearly views him as a key piece moving forward. The transition tag provides a one-year bridge, buying time to negotiate a long-term extension that could benefit both sides.
This tag choice also means the Indianapolis Colts cannot use a franchise or transition tag on impending free-agent wide receiver Alec Pierce. However, the front office remains optimistic about reaching multi-year agreements with both Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce during the offseason window.
Nov 9, 2025; Berlin, Germany; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) throws a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the NFL Berlin Game at Olympic Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Nov 9, 2025; Berlin, Germany; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) throws a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the NFL Berlin Game at Olympic Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Indianapolis Colts’ Offseason Priorities: Building Around Daniel Jones
With Daniel Jones tagged, the Indianapolis Colts shift focus to finalizing long-term deals and addressing other roster needs. Keeping Alec Pierce in the fold would maintain a strong receiving corps to complement Jones, while the quarterback position remains stabilized for at least one more season.
The transition tag on Daniel Jones underscores the Colts’ commitment to continuity at the most important position on the field. It also sets the stage for intriguing offseason drama—if another team makes a strong offer sheet, Indianapolis will have to decide whether to match or let Jones explore free agency.
Stay tuned for the latest Indianapolis Colts updates, including Daniel Jones contract developments, Alec Pierce negotiations, free agency targets, and draft plans as the offseason unfolds.
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