Few around the NFL believed in Daniel Jones when the Indianapolis Colts signed the quarterback.
Even after Jones took over as the starter, expectations remained low as most doubted Indianapolis could compete for the playoffs in the AFC.
Now, after six weeks, the Colts lead the conference, and Jones is performing at a level that few anticipated.
Former Colts punter Pat McAfee recently shared insights on what people around the organization are saying about Jones’ impact.
“My sources tell me that ‘Danny Dimes’ lives in the building. … He’s in there at 5 a.m., and then he stays till the end. He’s trying to build relationships with everybody. Obviously, he’s only on a one-year deal with us, but everything you want from a lead quarterback, he has been,” McAfee said.
My source(s) tell me that Danny Dimes lives in that Colts building..
Everybody absolutely loves him #PMSLive https://t.co/h1deeWSXyr pic.twitter.com/PpTKFQHkdE
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 15, 2025
McAfee said Colts insiders have been rewatching Jones’ tape from his time with the New York Giants to determine if this is the same quarterback who divided opinions coming out of the 2019 NFL Draft.
They see a player shaped by work with the Manning Passing Academy who appears smarter, tougher, more athletic and faster than many realized.
This version of Jones is playing at his peak, and Indianapolis is fortunate that his previous stops didn’t work out.
He has thrown for 1,502 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions in six starts for the Colts.
He signed a one-year deal worth $14 million and was expected to serve as the backup to Anthony Richardson after struggling with New York and spending time with the Minnesota Vikings.
Instead, he has turned the situation into genuine playoff thoughts for Indianapolis.
