Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones approached Week 8 facing uncertainties regarding his position. Although head coach Shane Steichen expressed support for him ahead of Sunday’s matchup, it soon became clear that Jones might have given his coach reason to rethink that endorsement.
After tossing two interceptions in a lopsided defeat, Jones was replaced by Anthony Richardson Sr. against the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking Richardson’s first appearance in a game since Week 5 of the prior season.
The Colts opted for this change with just over 11 minutes remaining in the game. At the moment of his substitution, Jones had completed 19 of 28 passes for 144 yards and one touchdown. However, he also threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown by the Jaguars, putting them ahead 28-0 at halftime.
Even after tossing the initial interception, Jones started the third quarter as the Colts’ starting quarterback. He managed to play through the third quarter, even throwing a touchdown to avoid a shutout. Yet, on his opening drive in the fourth quarter, he was intercepted by Branson Combs, effectively ending his performance for the day.
This season has proved challenging for Jones after an impressive 2025. As he entered Week 8, he had only four passing touchdowns compared to seven interceptions in seven games. In contrast, last season, he logged 19 touchdowns across 13 starts before a torn Achilles cut his campaign short. At that juncture, the Colts held an 8-5 record, but they finished the season with five consecutive losses, which cost them a playoff spot.
Amid ongoing questions regarding his availability throughout training camp, Jones ultimately managed to recover in time to take the field for the Colts in Week 1. However, over the course of seven games, he has failed to regain the form he showcased last season.
Being benched in Week 8 could signal the conclusion of Jones’ time with the Colts. Despite having signed Jones to a substantial extension that goes through 2028, the franchise has the option to part ways with him after this season. Given his recent performance, this possibility now appears increasingly likely.
