The Indianapolis Colts, following the recent firing of general manager Chris Ballard, are reportedly exploring significant trades involving their roster. While star players like running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs have been subjects of trade speculation, ESPN analyst Adam Schefter has introduced the idea that quarterback Daniel Jones could also be a surprise trade candidate.
Schefter suggested on his podcast that teams like the Baltimore Ravens or Minnesota Vikings might consider making a move for Jones. "So I know we’re focused in on Taylor and Downs, as we should be. And I’m not telling you that they’re trading Daniel. I’m just telling you, sometimes it’s the curveball that you don’t see," Schefter stated.
Jones, 29, joined the Colts last season after being released by the New York Giants. He had a career resurgence in Indianapolis, completing a personal-best 68 percent of his passes for 3,101 yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 13 games. He also added five rushing touchdowns. His season ended prematurely due to a torn Achilles, but he was subsequently signed to a two-year, $88 million contract.
This season, however, has seen a downturn for both Jones and the Colts. Indianapolis holds a 2-6 record through eight games, with Jones completing a career-low 60.4 percent of his passes for 1,542 yards, five touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Despite these struggles, head coach Shane Steichen reaffirmed his commitment to Jones as the team's starter on Monday.
The Colts have already traded Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers as part of what appears to be a larger sell-off. Reports also indicate that the team has received offers for Taylor and is awaiting potentially more attractive proposals.
Indianapolis will face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The team is looking to rebound after a significant loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in their last outing.