Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen said quarterback Daniel Jones is feeling good and gaining strength as he returns to action.
The recovery is critical for the team's 2026 outlook after Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear during the 2025 campaign [1]. His ability to regain mobility and power will determine the Colts' offensive stability heading into the new season.
Steichen provided updates on the quarterback's progress during the team's training camp in Indianapolis. The coach said that Jones is currently "full-go for training camp" [3]. This return follows a rigorous rehabilitation process intended to repair the damage sustained last year.
Recent performances have given the coaching staff confidence in the quarterback's current form. During an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, Steichen said, "He's on fire right now" [2]. The coach said that the athlete is not only healthy but performing at a high level during early camp activities.
The timing of the recovery aligns with the team's intensifying schedule. The Colts had a joint practice against the New England Patriots scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6 [2]. This provided an early opportunity for Jones to test his strength against outside competition before the regular season begins.
Following the joint practices, the team moved into more complex drills. Training camp 11-on-11 periods began on Wednesday, Aug. 7 [4]. These periods allow the coaching staff to evaluate the timing, and chemistry between Jones and the receiving corps in simulated game scenarios.
Steichen continued to praise the progress of his quarterback during recent media availability. "He's feeling good and gaining strength," Steichen said [1].
“"He's on fire right now,"”
The return of Daniel Jones to full participation signals that the Colts are moving past the injury crisis of the previous year. By integrating Jones into 11-on-11 drills and joint practices in early August, the team is accelerating its timeline to establish a starting quarterback. The focus now shifts from medical clearance to whether Jones can maintain his pre-injury efficiency under game conditions.
