Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard has indicated that quarterback Daniel Jones is "throwing" and "moving" as he continues his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon. Ballard described Jones as being in a "really good spot" and progressing well. This update comes as the team begins its offseason workout program.
Jones suffered the non-contact Achilles tear in his right leg during a Week 14 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in December 2025, which sidelined him for the remainder of that season. Prior to the injury, he had completed 68.0 percent of his passes for 3,101 yards, with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The Colts re-signed Jones to a two-year deal in March 2026, signaling their commitment to him as a central figure for the team's future.
While the team is optimistic, Ballard has not set a specific timeline for Jones' return to game action. However, the general sentiment suggests he could be ready for the start of the upcoming season. His rehabilitation has been compared by some insiders to the recovery paths of quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins, with the expectation that it might take a full year before he returns to his previous form.
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Other Colts players also recovering from injuries include defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who is undertaking plyometric workouts for his mobility, and wide receiver Alec Pierce, who underwent ankle surgery and will miss early offseason workouts. Kicker Spencer Shrader has begun kicking again after his own ACL injury, recently making a 54-yard field goal.
Jones, who joined the Colts on a one-year deal before his injury, is reportedly a well-respected figure in the locker room, known for his toughness and leadership mentality. His recovery is a key storyline as the Colts prepare for the upcoming NFL draft.
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