Daniel Jones appears ready to go for training camp.
Jones said via video from James Boyd of TheAthletic.com that he has been “cleared to do everything” as he continues his recovery from the Achilles injury he suffered last season. Jones had already progressed to 7-on-7 work during the Colts’ offseason program, and he is expected to be a full participant when training camp opens.
That is an important first step for both Jones and the Colts.
Indianapolis re-signed Jones this offseason hoping he could
bring stability to a quarterback room that has been unsettled for years. Anthony Richardson’s future with the team remains uncertain, while rookie Riley Leonard is still developing. Jones gives the Colts their most experienced option, and being healthy enough to participate fully in camp gives him a chance to take command of the offense early.
“I’m feeling good,” Jones said. “I think I’ve made a good amount of progress since minicamp and will continue to do that these next two weeks before camp and then all through camp. But I’m feeling really good and feel like I’m in a good spot.”
Jones also acknowledged that the injury is still something he thinks about, which is natural for a quarterback coming off an Achilles tear.
“You still think about it. Probably will until you get playing and into games and stuff,” Jones said. “You’re putting a lot of time into it. It’s kind of the central part of all my training and all my time this offseason. Still thinking about but really happy with where I am.”
For the Colts, the health update removes one immediate concern, although it does not answer the bigger question. Jones still has to prove he can be accurate, strong and consistent enough to lead Shane Steichen’s offense. The Colts do not need him to be a superstar, but they do need him to avoid the type of quarterback instability that has hurt them in recent seasons.
The roster around him should help. Jonathan Taylor remains the centerpiece of the offense, the offensive line gives Indianapolis a strong foundation, and the passing game has pieces in Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce and rookie tight end Tyler Warren. If Jones is healthy and steady, the Colts should have enough support around him to compete in the AFC South.
Training camp will be the first real test.
Being cleared is the good news. Now Jones has to show the Colts that he can turn a clean bill of health into a clean command of the offense.
