The Indianapolis Colts have placed the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones, marking a rare NFL strategy reminiscent of the 1996 Atlanta Falcons’ approach.

Understanding the Transition Tag

This tag offers Jones $37.8 million, lower than the franchise tag’s $43.9 million. It permits Jones to negotiate long-term contracts with other teams. If he signs elsewhere, the Colts hold matching rights. Declining to match means losing him without draft compensation.

The transition tag last appeared in 1996 when the Falcons used it on former Colts quarterback Jeff George.

Jones’ Journey with the Colts

After a challenging exit from the New York Giants in 2024, Jones excelled with the Colts in 2025 under a one-year, $14 million deal. The team stood at 8-4 when he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7.

The injury derailed both Jones and the Colts, who lost six consecutive games and missed the playoffs.

Ongoing Contract Negotiations

Officials confirm Jones and the Colts are negotiating a long-term extension. The organization values his performance when healthy.

Backup QB Anthony Richardson’s Trade Pursuit

Meanwhile, backup quarterback Anthony Richardson and the Colts mutually agreed to explore trade options this offseason.

Richardson, a former first-round pick, has played only 17 games over three years due to injuries. In 2024, he completed 47.7 percent of his passes. Last season, he appeared in two games, completing one of two passes, before an orbital bone fracture sidelined him from mid-October.

The Colts view 2025 sixth-round pick Riley Leonard as a viable backup, limiting Richardson’s role next season.