Michael Pittman Praises Daniel Jones’ Revival with Colts After NY Criticism
Daniel Jones has seen a remarkable turnaround in his career after moving to the Indianapolis Colts from the New York Giants. Despite initial struggles in New York, where he faced injuries and inconsistent gameplay, Jones now stands as a revitalized quarterback in 2025.
Revival Under New Leadership
In his rookie season, Jones showcased potential with 3,027 passing yards and a notable 24 touchdown passes. However, he was also plagued by turnovers, recording 12 interceptions and losing 11 fumbles. His performance peaked in 2022, as he amassed 3,205 yards while boasting a league-low interception percentage of 1.1. This impressive display led to a significant contract extension from the Giants.
Challenges in New York
Despite the initial optimism, the Giants struggled with injuries and a weak offensive line. These factors contributed to their eventual decision to release Jones midway through the 2024 season. Post-Giants, he spent time as a backup with the Minnesota Vikings before joining the Colts in the offseason.
Impressive 2025 Season So Far
Currently, Jones is enjoying a standout year with a career-high completion percentage of 71.0%, ranking fifth in the NFL. He has also achieved 101 first downs, trailing only Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert as of Week 8.
- Career Highlights in 2025:
- Six games with a passer rating over 100, matching his total from the previous two seasons combined.
- Only six sacks allowed, the least among all NFL quarterbacks.
- Leading the league with a 2.7 sack percentage.
Adapting to a New Offensive Scheme
Jones’s success in Indianapolis can be attributed to the supportive environment under coach Shane Steichen. Having previously navigated three head coaches and four offensive coordinators in six seasons with the Giants, the stability has been beneficial for his performance. His ability to quickly release the ball and excel in play-action scenarios has further highlighted his potential.
Utilizing Play Action Effectively
The Colts lead the NFL in play-action dropbacks, totaling 87 to date. Their passing yards per game on play action stand at 110.7, marking the second-highest rate since 2020. The inclusion of running back Jonathan Taylor in the offense allows Jones to capitalize on defensive schemes effectively.
Jones represents a notable example of a high draft pick rejuvenating his career after facing early adversity. His progress demonstrates the significance of a supportive system and a well-suited offensive strategy. As he continues to evolve, Jones is proving himself as a capable leader for the Indianapolis Colts. His revival has shifted discussions around his abilities, showcasing the potential that was once a point of contention during his tenure with the Giants.
