Daniel Jones Return Timeline Injury Update: Will the Colts QB Play Again This Season?

Daniel Jones faces a season-ending setback after suffering a torn Achilles in the Indianapolis Colts’ Week 14 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 8. The main injury update was confirmed by team officials and multiple national outlets. Questions now center on the Daniel Jones return timeline and whether the veteran quarterback will see the field again this season.

Jones went down in the first half and did not return. Colts coach Shane Steichen said the early evaluation already suggested a serious injury, and further testing confirmed the diagnosis. The Colts must now adjust their plans as they push toward the final stretch of the regular season.

Latest Daniel Jones Injury Update and Recovery Outlook

Jones tore his right Achilles, according to reports from ESPN and NFL Network, and he will undergo season-ending surgery. The timeline for recovery from a torn Achilles typically extends several months, which puts his availability for next season into question. The Colts have not released a projected return date, but the standard recovery window often spans deep into the next year.

Jones completed 5 of 7 passes for 60 yards and an interception before exiting. He had been having one of the most efficient seasons of his career, completing 68 percent of his throws for 3,101 yards, 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. His mobility was still an asset, adding 164 rushing yards and five rushing scores.

Backup quarterback Riley Leonard replaced him and finished with 145 passing yards and an interception, plus a rushing touchdown. Brett Rypien remains on the practice squad, while former starter Anthony Richardson continues recovering from a fractured orbital bone on injured reserve.

Other Colts’ injuries in Week 14 included offensive tackle Braden Smith, who left with a concussion, and cornerback Chris Lammons, who exited with a foot issue. The team will continue medical evaluations throughout the week ahead of their December 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.

The latest injury update leaves the Colts with major lineup adjustments. Jones’ absence forces major changes to the offense, especially in pass protection and overall game planning. Indianapolis remains in the playoff hunt, but losing its starting quarterback places extra pressure on a roster already managing multiple injuries.

How the Daniel Jones Injury Shapes the Colts’ Path Forward

The Colts now turn to Leonard and their supporting cast to stabilize the offense. The loss of Jones also affects the team’s preparation, as veteran experience will be difficult to replace in high-pressure situations. Indianapolis will need to rely more heavily on its run game and short-yardage efficiency.

Defensively, injuries across the league also highlight Week 14’s toll. Several teams—including the Dolphins, Jets, Raiders, Browns, Chiefs and Commanders—lost key contributors, adding broader pressure on depth charts and late-season evaluations. The Colts must navigate this environment while staying competitive.

Jones’ return timeline depends entirely on post-surgery recovery, but all signs point to his 2025 season being over. Indianapolis will now prepare for Week 15 without its starting quarterback as the team awaits long-term updates.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the current Daniel Jones return timeline?

Jones is expected to miss the rest of the season due to a torn Achilles. Recovery typically spans several months and varies by athlete.

Q2: Will Daniel Jones undergo surgery?

Yes. Reports confirm he will have season-ending surgery to repair the Achilles injury.

Q3: Who will replace Daniel Jones for the Colts?

Riley Leonard is the primary replacement. Brett Rypien remains on the practice squad.

Q4: How does the injury affect the Colts’ playoff path?

The Colts lose their starting quarterback at a critical time. Offensive adjustments will be necessary for Week 15 and beyond.

Q5: Did other Colts players suffer injuries in Week 14?

Yes. Braden Smith and Chris Lammons both exited the game with injuries and await further evaluation.