The contract angle. Jones signed a two-year, $88 million deal in March that included a $44 million signing bonus. He carries a $10.51 million injury guarantee for 2027 that becomes fully guaranteed on March 15 if he is still on the roster. At 2-6 after four straight losses, Indianapolis has a reason to protect itself. If the Colts fall out of the race and keep him, a benching to avoid injury risk is possible.
What RSO owners should do now. Start Jones in Week 9 if you have been starting him, since he is the Colts' quarterback on Sunday. Don't trade him away at a discount on a rumor. If you roster the Colts' backup, hold him through Tuesday, because a trade or a late-season benching would make him the starter. In contract leagues, Jones's value beyond 2026 depends on where he lands, so wait for a deal before you sort out next year's cap.
What to watch next. Watch for calls through Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline, any quarterback injuries around the league this weekend, and whether Minnesota or another team with a quarterback need makes a firm offer. Also watch whether Taylor's market moves at the same time, since a full Colts sell-off would change both backfield and passing-game values.