Overview
- Jones is out for the season after a non-contact Achilles tear in Week 14, ending a strong year on a one-year, $14 million deal with eight wins in 12 starts.
- Rookie Riley Leonard assumes the starting job, with Brett Rypien on the practice squad, while Richardson remains on injured reserve with an orbital fracture and no timetable to return.
- Team officials are expected to add quarterback depth, with Taylor Heinicke highlighted as a free-agent option and speculative media mentions including Joe Flacco or Russell Wilson depending on release scenarios.
- Other depth possibilities discussed include practice-squad targets such as Sam Ehlinger and Trevor Siemian, while Ryan Tannehill has indicated he is content staying retired, making him unlikely.
- Analysts say the injury complicates 2026 planning, with a potential franchise tag projected around $46 million and Indianapolis at 8-5 facing a tougher path to the postseason.