Colts hold Daniel Jones trade talks as multiple teams call about QB cover
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Colts hold Daniel Jones trade talks as multiple teams call about QB

Indianapolis is listening to offers for its starting quarterback ahead of Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET trade deadline. Jones still starts Sunday against Dallas, and his $10.51 million 2027 injury guarantee hangs over the decision.

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  • The Indianapolis Colts have held trade talks about quarterback Daniel Jones after multiple teams called about him, league sources told NFL Network and ESPN on Saturday morning. Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter shared the news, which comes alongside the Colts' talks about running back Jonathan Taylor.

  • What's confirmed. Jones remains on the roster and is slated to start Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Shane Steichen said this week that "Daniel gives us the best chance to win right now." No deal is in place.

    What sources describe. Indianapolis is willing to listen to offers, but it won't move Jones unless it believes the return is fair. The Baltimore Ravens checked in before trading for Jacoby Brissett. Per ESPN, the Colts are expected to take calls through Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline, with draft capital and lower financial risk as the goals. ESPN also notes speculation linking the Minnesota Vikings, a team Jones has history with.

  • 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.