“That’s the boat they’re in”: Ex-NFL GM spells out Colts' uncomfortable reality with Daniel Jones contract extension as QB nurses Achilles injury

Former Las Vegas Raiders general manager Tom Telesco has given insight into the Daniel Jones situation with the Indianapolis Colts. Jones picked up a season-ending injury in Week 14, tearing his Achilles tendon and requiring surgery.

The quarterback will consequently have a lengthy recovery timeline that puts him out of postseason play if the Colts do make it. But beyond the playoffs, Jones’ injury raises serious questions about his future with the Colts, as his deal expires after this year.

During Telesco’s appearance on the Up & Adams show on Monday, he was asked if he would consider giving the quarterback an extension. He answered:

“Well, it's tough because they almost have to at this point. I mean, they've kind of leveraged it by trading their two number one draft picks for Sauce Gardner, thinking, "Hey, Daniel Jones is going to be our future quarterback." So I think that's the boat that they're in. Now, the good thing is, I think the relationship between Shane Steichen and Daniel Jones is outstanding. I think they both see the game very similarly. They both have the same passion for the X's and O's. So I think they feel like he's their guy.”

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The former administrator pointed out other things the Colts need to figure out, saying:

“Now, you just got to figure out, contract-wise, what works best for the team, for their cap, and for Daniel Jones. I think Daniel has shown he can play and played a high level in that offense… Obviously, coming off the Achilles, plenty of players have come back from that. He's a quarterback; he's not a corner, he's not a receiver, so that helps, but you got to figure out the right contract.”

How Daniel Jones’ injury is affecting Indianapolis

The Colts’ quarterback situation hit a steep decline following Daniel Jones’ injury, with the team having to call Philip Rivers out of retirement. However, after losing his first two starts for the Colts on his return, the team has slipped to 8-7.

Jones ended his season with 3,101 passing yards for 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He also covered an additional 164 yards on the ground for five touchdowns in 45 carries.

The Colts face the Jacksonville Jaguars next in a game that has much bearing on their playoff race. The 44-year-old Rivers is expected to lead the Colts against their next opponents.

Edited by Kayode Akinwumi