Colts quarterback Daniel Jones might be sidelined for six to eight months following surgery to fix a torn Achilles tendon in New York. This procedure took place on Tuesday.
If all goes well, he should be cleared in time for the start of training camp next summer, as per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Jones, 28, had been having a solid season with the Colts, who brought him on with a one-year, $14 million deal in the offseason.
Despite being a free agent heading into the offseason, reports suggest he is still likely to stick with Indianapolis for next year.
Schefter has mentioned that the team might provide updates on his recovery by April.
In 13 games with the Colts, Jones threw for 3,027 yards, along with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
His season came to an abrupt end during a Week 14 clash against the Jaguars. It was a tough moment for him, as he fell to the ground in frustration after realizing the extent of his injury.
Indications are that both Jones and the Colts are interested in continuing their relationship, though they’ll need to navigate some significant decisions moving forward.
Jones’ elevated performance may attract interest from other teams as well; this could potentially drive up his market value.
Next season, the Colts may consider using the franchise tag on him, which could command a price between $45 million and $46 million—three times what he currently earns.
In the meantime, Jones will focus on rehabilitation while the Colts—who were once seen as Super Bowl contenders—try to salvage their season.
Currently, Indianapolis has dropped four of their last five games, falling to an 8-5 record and sitting outside the playoff picture with three games left to play.
With their quarterback situation in disarray, the team is likely turning to retiree Philip Rivers as they prepare for a game against the 10-3 Seahawks on Sunday.
