Daniel Jones Rumors: Vikings, Colts Expected to Be Top Contenders for QB Contract

Daniel Jones isn't the most popular free agent quarterback in this year's cycle, but he's still expected to generate some interest.

According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Minnesota Vikings and Indianapolis Colts are "expected to be the leading contenders to sign" Jones. The 27-year-old ended the 2024 season in Minnesota after being released from the New York Giants midseason.

Jones, who spent the first 10 games of the season in New York, finished 2024 with 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns and seven interceptions. He didn't see any action upon his arrival to Minnesota as Sam Darnold stayed under center during his breakout year.

Darnold will now hit free agency after the Vikings opted not to use their franchise tag on him, and he's reportedly not expected to return to Minnesota. That bodes well for Jones as his value to the Vikings will likely increase.

Whether in Minnesota or Indianapolis, Jones will be competing with a young quarterback for the starting job.

The Vikings' 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, J.J. McCarthy, lost his rookie year due to injury. Darnold returning to Minnesota would likely mean another year on the bench for McCarthy, but he should be able to compete with Jones for the starting job should he return to the Vikings.

In Indianapolis, the Colts are still hoping for a breakout year from Anthony Richardson. The No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft played just four games due to injury in his rookie year but spent most of the 2024 season as the starter.

In 11 games, Richardson threw for 1,814 yards, eight touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

While time will tell whether McCarthy is the clear starter for the Vikings, it's fair to say Jones might have a better chance of earning the QB1 spot over Richardson in Indianapolis.

Richardson has struggled early in his career, and the Colts were quick to bench him in favor of Joe Flacco for a few games last season. Richardson could have a breakout year in his third season, but signing with Indianapolis would likely be the safer move for Jones if he wants to start this season.