Daniel Jones has experienced plenty of highs and lows over his last few NFL seasons. He's hoping the next checkpoint is a bright spot.
In the last six months, Jones has been released by the Giants, added to the Vikings' practice squad and signed with the Colts, where he expects to receive a legitimate chance to earn a starting job. At least, that's what he's been told will be on the table for him in Indianapolis, where he's been brought in to compete with former first-round pick Anthony Richardson.
"That's been the communication," Jones said on Thursday, via ESPN. "[It's] an opportunity to come in and compete, and I'm looking forward to that. ... A lot of respect for Anthony, watching him. I think he's certainly a talented young player, and I think the competition aspect of it brings out the best in everybody. And I think we're both interested in helping this team win games and whatever we can do to help that happen."
Jones could use a bounce-back season along the lines of what Sam Darnold enjoyed in Minnesota in 2024, but unlike Darnold in San Francisco, Jones didn't get a full year in a secure operation that didn't need him to contribute. He's bounced around plenty, which could be useful for those seeking experience, but stability hasn't been a common theme.
Indianapolis hasn't been entirely sturdy, either, thanks in large part to Richardson's inconsistency. That opened a door for Jones, who hopes to mirror Darnold if he can earn the top job.
"The way Sam prepared every week, how detailed and diligent he was with every single aspect of the game plan, starting the week, building it up, how he prepared for practice, how he reviewed practice, how he prepared, how he watched film -- all that stuff was really impressive to me," Jones said. "I thought he did a really good job focusing on just kind of what was immediately right in front of him, what was most important that day. So, I have a ton of respect for Sam."
If Jones is to improve, he'd benefit from taking notes on how Darnold operated Minnesota's offense. He's also not playing with the same talent afforded to Darnold in Minnesota, though, increasing the level of difficulty. But at this point, all Jones can ask for is a chance, and it sounds as if he's receiving a legitimate one in Indianapolis.
Time will tell whether Jones can capitalize, but it certainly looks better than what he left behind in New York.
"We had some good times, had some not-as-good times," he said. "Ultimately, we didn't win consistently enough. But I learned a lot and enjoyed the time in New York. Learned a lot from a lot of different people throughout the process, so feel fortunate to have had the experience there. But I'm excited for what's ahead.
"I'm excited to be here in Indianapolis."
