Colts Use Transition Tag on Daniel Jones

0:00You're listening to NFL News today. Subscribe now for fast daily updates on your team. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones just got hit with the transition tag as NFL free agency kicks off. This comes after he tore his Achilles tendon in week 14 of the 2025 season. The team wants to see him play before committing longterm so they use this one year deal instead. The transition tag offers a salary based on the average of the top 10 highest paid players at his position over the past five years, or 100. 20% of his previous pay, if that's higher. Jones can now tall deals with other teams and sign an offer sheet, but the Colts have seven days to match it. If they pass, he walks with no draft picks coming back their way. Players and fans often see the transition tag as a way for teams to low ball talent since it pays less than a full franchise tag and risks team tension. Still, it's a smart play for clubs unsure of a player's market value. Letting the open market set the price

1:00without overpaying upfront. Compared to the franchise tag, which averages the top five salaries and gives two first round picks if unmatched, the transition version is cheaper and more flexible but riskier with zero compensation. There are also exclusive franchise tags that lock players and completely without shopping rights. Only 15 players in NFL history have gotten this tag, making Jones part of a rare group. Negotiations for long-term extensions can continue until mid-July, so his future stays wide open. This DNN story is thanks to our sponsor details in the description. Podcasts hit different when the sound comes from your pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense. S-O-L-I-S-O-L-P-L-O.com. S-O-L-L-I-S-O-L-P-L-O.com.