Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback Daniel Jones tore his Achilles during Week 14 of the 2025 regular season. However, Jones appears to be recovering well ahead of schedule.
The Colts’ quarterback was participating in the individual drills during the team’s OTA practices this past week. When asked about his Week 1 availability, while there are still benchmarks to hit, Jones believes that he will “absolutely” be ready.
Jones was playing at an elite level through the first half of last season prior to the injury, ranking among the best in several key passing categories, while the Colts’ offense was among the highest-scoring in the NFL through the first 10 games.
While appearing on ‘The Insiders,’ Colts’ wide receiver Josh Downs was recently asked about the impact that a fully healthy Jones could have on Indy’s offense in 2026.
“DJ’s a savage, I’ll say that,” Downs said. “He’s a guy who has played with a broken leg and tore his Achillies sadly. He’s been in there countless hours working this offseason, he’s been in there every day. First one in, last one out type of guy, he’s doing what he needs to do. And I know he’s going to keep doing that.
“He played excellent when he was out there last year, and we are looking forward to him doing the same thing. Like you said, he’s already out there throwing with us early in OTAs, so that’s a great sign right there. I expect him to be out there as soon as possible.”
Downs’ opportunities this season following the departure of veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr. could significantly increase. Jones and Downs connected for 370 yards and three touchdowns across the first 13 weeks of the season last year.
The Colts prioritized re-signing Jones this offseason, operating under the belief that he can regain last season’s first-half form.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts’ WR Josh Downs on Daniel Jones return to practice field
Reporting by Jake Boico, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
