Indianapolis, December 8, 2025
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, ending his season. After playing through a fractured left fibula, Jones went down in the first quarter, leading to the entry of rookie Riley Leonard as his replacement. The Colts, now facing a tough road ahead with an 8-5 record, must reassess their strategy as they grapple with injuries and a losing streak in the AFC South.
Indianapolis, IN – Daniel Jones Suffers Season-Ending Achilles Injury in Colts’ Loss to Jaguars
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones sustained a torn right Achilles tendon during the first quarter of Sunday’s 36-19 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars, effectively ending his 2025 season.
Jones, who had been playing through a fractured left fibula, collapsed after releasing a pass to Alec Pierce. He was immediately attended to by medical staff and later limped to the locker room, where he was ruled out for the remainder of the game. Head coach Shane Steichen expressed concern regarding the severity of the injury, noting the team would have to reassess their strategy moving forward.
Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard replaced Jones, completing 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards, one interception, and a rushing touchdown. Despite Leonard’s efforts, the Colts’ offense struggled, and the team extended its losing streak in Jacksonville to 11 consecutive games. This defeat has intensified the challenges the Colts face in the AFC South division as they find themselves trailing the Jaguars and grappling with a series of recent losses.
Jones’ Injury Impact
Daniel Jones’ injury not only sidelines him for the remainder of the season but also raises questions about the Colts’ quarterback future. Transitioning through injuries has often been a theme for the team, which emphasizes the importance of developing resilience within their roster. Without Jones, the momentum gained earlier in the season may see a significant shift as the Colts look to other options.
Leonard Takes the Helm
Riley Leonard’s debut performance as interim quarterback will be closely scrutinized. Completing 62.1% of his passes, Leonard demonstrated a willingness to execute plays despite facing a tough defense. His ability to adapt and find alternatives within the offense will be crucial as the team heads into the latter part of the season.
Colts’ Current Status
With an 8-5 record, the Colts are now positioned at a critical juncture in their season. Trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are currently 9-4, the Colts must regroup quickly. With four losses out of their last five games, urgency is building within the organization, prompting immediate reflection on tactics and personnel choices.
Defensive Challenges
The injury to cornerback Sauce Gardner further complicates the Colts’ defensive strategy. Gardner is currently week-to-week with a calf strain, leaving the team without one of its key defensive players as they aim to recapture their earlier momentum.
Future Strategy
The Colts’ front office now faces critical decisions regarding the quarterback position and overall strategy for the remainder of the season. Evaluating Riley Leonard’s performance along with the potential return of Anthony Richardson, who is on injured reserve, will be pivotal in shaping the team’s future approach. This situation highlights the need for solid leadership and strategic planning to navigate the challenges ahead.
Key Points:
- Daniel Jones’ Injury: Torn right Achilles tendon; season-ending.
- Riley Leonard’s Performance: 18 completions, 145 yards, 1 interception, 1 rushing touchdown.
- Team Status: Colts now 8-5, trailing Jaguars (9-4); lost four of last five games.
- Additional Injury: Sauce Gardner (cornerback) week-to-week with calf strain.
- Front Office Decisions: Focus on quarterback position and team strategy moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What happened to Daniel Jones during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars?
Daniel Jones suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in the first quarter of the game, leading to his season-ending injury.
Who replaced Daniel Jones as quarterback for the Colts?
Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard took over after Jones’ injury, completing 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards, one interception, and a rushing touchdown.
What is the current record of the Indianapolis Colts?
The Colts are now 8-5, trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars, who lead the AFC South with a 9-4 record.
Is Sauce Gardner still playing for the Colts?
No, Sauce Gardner is currently week-to-week with a calf strain and is expected to miss some time but is anticipated to return this season.
What are the Colts’ plans for the quarterback position moving forward?
The Colts’ front office is evaluating the quarterback position, considering the performance of Riley Leonard and the potential return of Anthony Richardson, who is currently on injured reserve.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury | Daniel Jones suffered a torn right Achilles tendon, ending his season. |
| Replacement | Riley Leonard replaced Jones, completing 18 of 29 passes for 145 yards, one interception, and a rushing touchdown. |
| Team Record | The Colts are now 8-5, trailing the Jaguars (9-4) in the AFC South. |
| Additional Injury | Cornerback Sauce Gardner is week-to-week with a calf strain. |
| Front Office Focus | The Colts are assessing the quarterback position and team strategy moving forward. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Colts Quarterback Daniel Jones Suffers Season-Ending Injury
Daniel Jones Suffers Season-Ending Achilles Injury in Colts’ Loss to Jaguars
Colts Quarterback Daniel Jones Out for Season with Injury
Colts Quarterback Daniel Jones Out for Season with Achilles Injury
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
