The Indianapolis Colts and Minnesota Vikings both pursued quarterback during this offseason’s NFL free agency, but he ultimately signed with the Colts. Despite both teams presenting competitive offers, Indianapolis landed him—even though they offered less guaranteed money.
NFL.com’s Tom Pelissero revealed on the Ross Tucker Podcast that Minnesota’s offer reportedly included more guaranteed money, yet he declined it.
According to Spotrac,his contract includes a $14 million base salary, a $6 million signing bonus, and $13.15 million guaranteed at signing.
“It seemed like the Vikings believed Jones would return, but near the end, they sensed he wasn’t fully committed to staying in Minnesota,” Pelissero explained. “In the end, he accepted a deal with slightly less guaranteed money from the Colts.”
Jones had spent the latter part of the 2024 season with the Vikings, becoming familiar with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offensive scheme. With Sam Darnold expected to leave in free agency, Minnesota was optimistic about retaining Jones and potentially having him compete with rookie J.J. McCarthy for the starting quarterback job in 2025. Thanks to his familiarity with the system and the coaching staff’s respect for him, Jones appeared to be in a strong position.
Nevertheless, he opted to join the Colts, where the opportunity for a starting role appeared more straightforward. He’s already begun working with Colts top receiver Michael Pittman Jr. this offseason.
Minnesota didn’t find a backup quarterback until April, when they traded fifth-round picks with the Seattle Seahawks to acquire Sam Howell. Howell is expected to serve as a short-term solution, as he’ll become a free agent after the 2025 season.
