Pro Football Rumors
Less than eight months after tearing his Achilles, Colts quarterback Daniel Jones is fully cleared for training camp.
“Plan is to be back in 11-on-11, full-team drills Wednesday when we start up practice,” Jones said on The Pat McAfee Show. “Be out there with the guys, excited to get back rolling.”
Average recovery times for Achilles ruptures have gotten faster and faster in recent years. Jones is the latest player to beat the previously-typical nine-month return timeline, made even more impressive by his simultaneous rehab from a fracture in his other leg. That injury, suffered in November, healed much quicker than Jones’ December Achilles tear, allowing him to focus on the tougher rehab over the last several months.
The Colts will be closely monitoring Jones throughout training camp. He will be a full participant right away, but the team may limit his reps as he reacclimates to the field. That will also give the team an opportunity to evaluate Riley Leonard and Anthony Richardson, who are battling for the backup quarterback job.
Steichen indicated that neither had emerged as a leader in spring practices and would have to earn the gig in training camp. A strong preseason could also revive trade interest in Richardson, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract and could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere.
