Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) reacts after throwing a red zone interception Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Colts’ decision to place their faith in Daniel Jones is becoming a costly mistake, and the consequences could extend far beyond the financial implications as the 2026 NFL season continues to unravel.
After signing a two-year contract extension, Jones has struggled to deliver consistent performances, leaving Indianapolis at 2-5 following Sunday’s 16-10 loss to the undefeated Minnesota Vikings in Week 7.
The Colts will have a $35.2 million dead cap charge on their books next season, if they release Daniel Jones. Jones has arguably been the NFL’s worst quarterback this season after signing a two-year extension. https://t.co/0YEHkr2jE6
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) October 25, 2026
With the November 10 trade deadline approaching, the Colts must decide whether to continue building around their quarterback or begin a major roster overhaul.
MORE:
Jones’ struggles create an expensive problem
Oct 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) drops back to pass against the Minnesota Vikings in the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Through seven games, Jones has completed just 59.6 percent of his passes for 1,398 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions. He has also recorded 68 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown, numbers that have done little to inspire confidence in Indianapolis’ direction.
Releasing Jones would create approximately $35.2 million in dead salary-cap charges next season, making an immediate separation an expensive proposition for the franchise.
Despite the quarterback’s disappointing performances, head coach Shane Steichen remains committed to him, refusing to entertain the possibility of a change under center.
“I’m not considering a quarterback change,” Steichen said after Sunday’s defeat. “I’ve got a ton of faith in Daniel.”
That confidence could prove costly if Jones cannot turn his season around. Indianapolis has already fired general manager Chris Ballard, adding further uncertainty to a franchise searching for answers.
MORE:
Trade deadline could trigger a Colts rebuild
Oct 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) rushes the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
With the Colts struggling to compete, attention is shifting toward the November 10 trade deadline and the possibility that Indianapolis could become a seller.
Franchise running back Jonathan Taylor has emerged as a potential trade candidate, while offensive lineman Quenton Nelson, defensive tackle Grover Stewart and wide receiver Keenan Allen have also been mentioned in trade speculation.
Moving established players could help Indianapolis accumulate draft capital and begin rebuilding, but it would also strip the roster of experienced talent and potentially extend the team’s struggles.
The decision to invest in Jones now threatens to leave the Colts facing an uncomfortable choice: continue hoping their quarterback can rediscover his form or accept that the current approach is not working.
Either way, the financial burden of moving on from Jones could complicate their plans. More importantly, his continued struggles could push Indianapolis toward trading away key players and starting over.
The Colts return to action in Week 8 against the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2) on Sunday, with pressure mounting to prove their season can still be salvaged.