The Indianapolis Colts have taken the next step with Daniel Jones.
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However, it does not imply a contract extension or a franchise tag. Instead, it is the lesser-known transition label.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that the Colts have placed the transition tag on Jones.
Jones is coming off a torn Achilles tendon, but seemed like the best option for the Colts at QB going forward, as long as he’s healthy.
But how exactly does this work? Here are some answers.
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How much is the transition tag for QB?
According to Schefter, Jones will cost $37.833 million on the transition tag.
That’s $6 million cheaper than the franchise tag QB.
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It covers only the 2026 season, but it also has a problem.
How does the transition tag work?
The transition tag is different from the franchise tag because it allows for negotiations with other teams.
If a team uses the franchise tag, that player is exclusively theirs.
Under this setup, other teams can offer Jones a contract this offseason.
The transition tag allows the Colts to match an offer sheet given to Jones, so they technically guarantee themselves the ability to retain him no matter what.
Now it will be fascinating to see if other teams make him a big offer in free agency.