The Strategy Behind the Transition Tag
By opting for the transition tag over the traditional franchise tag, the Colts have secured a significant discount. The transition tag for quarterbacks in 2026 is set at $37.833 million, which is more than $6 million cheaper than the standard franchise tag.
How it Works:
- Right of First Refusal: Daniel Jones is permitted to negotiate and sign an offer sheet with any other NFL team.
- The Colts’ Option: If Jones signs an offer sheet elsewhere, Indianapolis has seven days to match the terms exactly to keep him.
- No Compensation: Unlike the “exclusive” or “non-exclusive” franchise tags, if the Colts decline to match an outside offer, they receive no draft pick compensation in return.
The Daniel Jones Revival: 2025 by the Numbers
After six polarizing seasons with the New York Giants, Jones found his rhythm in the Colts’ system under head coach Shane Steichen. DespiteBy opting for the transition tag over the traditional franchise tag, the Colts have secured a significant discount. The transition tag for quarterbacks in 2026 is set at $37.833 million, which is more than $6 million cheaper than the standard franchise tag.
How it Works:
- Right of First Refusal: Daniel Jones is permitted to negotiate and sign an offer sheet with any other NFL team.
- The Colts’ Option: If Jones signs an offer sheet elsewhere, Indianapolis has seven days to match the terms exactly to keep him.
- No Compensation: Unlike the “exclusive” or “non-exclusive” franchise tags, if the Colts decline to match an outside offer, they receive no draft pick compensation in return.
The Daniel Jones Revival: 2025 by the Numbers
After six polarizing seasons with the New York Giants, Jones found his rhythm in the Colts’ system under head coach Shane Steichen. Despite a season-ending injury, his 13-game stretch in 2025 provided the most efficient football of his career. a season-ending injury, his 13-game stretch in 2025 provided the most efficient football of his career.