Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has a fracture in his fibula, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Jones continues to practice, with a source telling Rapoport he “looked good.” The NFL insider added the veteran signal-caller intends to play through the injury with Houston Texans on tap Sunday.
ESPN’s Stephen Holder followed up to write Indianapolis “would not confirm or deny” Rapoport’s report. The Colts did at least list Jones in their injury report as a full participant at practice.
The Athletic’s James Boyd shared some clips of on-field reps from Jones, whom he said wasn’t moving with his usual ease:
The 28-year-old has been a revelation this season. He has thrown for 2,840 yards, 17 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 11 starts, and his 65.9 QBR ranks seventh at ESPN.com.
Especially with Anthony Richardson still recovering from a freak orbital fracture, the gulf between Jones and the next man up under center is pretty substantial.
Sixth-round draft pick Riley Leonard has attempted two total passes, completing neither, in the NFL. In three preseason games, he had 345 passing yards along with one touchdown and an interception.
The 8-3 Colts are obviously much better with Jones than Leonard at quarterback. The potential risks of playing on a fibula fracture, no matter how minor, are equally apparent. Beyond the danger of suffering a worse injury, having less mobility in the pocket could affect his performance.
The Texans are tied for sixth in sacks with 33. Head coach DeMeco Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke might be even more aggressive in pressuring Jones given he’s not at 100 percent.
