Daniel Jones Joins Peyton Manning in Rare Colts Passing Milestone

The Indianapolis Colts continued their impressive surge in Week 10, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 31–25 to secure their eighth win of the season. While running back Jonathan Taylor once again delivered a strong outing, the game also marked a significant personal achievement for quarterback Daniel Jones — one that placed him alongside one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Jones threw for 255 yards in the victory, marking the tenth consecutive game this season in which he surpassed the 200-yard passing mark. According to team Vice President of Football Communications Matt Conti, that feat has only been accomplished once before in Colts history — by Peyton Manning. It’s a benchmark that speaks volumes about Jones’ consistency and efficiency since arriving in Indianapolis.

This was also Jones’ third career game posting at least 250 passing yards and 50 rushing yards, underlining the dual-threat dimension he’s added to the Colts’ offense. His calm command in the pocket and ability to extend plays have helped keep Indianapolis’ attack balanced and unpredictable.

For a team that entered the season with questions at quarterback, Jones’ steady performance has given the Colts something they’ve lacked in years — stability under center. With his precision passing and growing confidence, he’s quietly led the franchise back into AFC contention.

1. A Redemption Story in Motion

Jones’ resurgence in Indianapolis has been one of the NFL’s more compelling storylines this season. After six uneven years with the New York Giants, the 28-year-old quarterback appears to have found the right system — and the right surroundings — to unlock his potential. Under head coach Shane Steichen, the Colts have tailored an offense that plays to Jones’ strengths, emphasizing rhythm throws, movement, and read-option elements that keep defenses guessing. Through ten games, Jones has thrown for 2,659 yards and accounted for 20 total touchdowns — 15 through the air and five on the ground — while completing just under 70% of his passes. His efficiency has been a defining feature, helping Indianapolis sustain drives and limit turnovers, an area that plagued him in previous seasons. Equally important, Jones’ presence has energized the locker room. Veteran leaders have praised his composure and leadership, while young receivers like Alec Pierce and Josh Downs have benefited from his accuracy and trust in tight windows. The synergy between quarterback and play-caller has created one of the league’s most well-rounded offensive units. Jones’ turnaround reflects not just improved play, but renewed belief — both from the organization and himself. In Indianapolis, he’s no longer trying to prove he belongs; he’s showing why he does.

2. Colts Position Themselves for Playoff Push

Beyond individual accolades, Jones’ impact is evident in the Colts’ overall trajectory. At 8–2, Indianapolis has emerged as a legitimate AFC contender, powered by a balanced offense and a defense that continues to make timely plays. Running back Jonathan Taylor’s resurgence has complemented Jones perfectly, giving the Colts a formidable one-two punch capable of controlling games on the ground and through the air. The front office reinforced its commitment to contention by making a bold move at the trade deadline — acquiring cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets. The addition of Gardner bolsters an already physical defense that thrives on takeaways and disciplined play. With both sides of the ball clicking, Indianapolis enters its bye week as one of the league’s more complete teams. Head coach Shane Steichen has emphasized focus and health as the team’s priorities moving forward. The Week 11 bye comes at an ideal time, giving players a chance to regroup before a critical stretch run that begins with a matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 12. Kansas City, winners of three of its last four games, will test just how far Indianapolis has come. For the Colts, that game offers an early opportunity to measure themselves against one of the AFC’s established powers — and for Daniel Jones, another stage to prove that his comeback season is no fluke.

3. Building a Foundation for Sustained Success

As the Colts head into the season’s final stretch, their blend of experience, youth, and momentum positions them well for the playoffs — and potentially beyond. The offensive line has provided stability, Taylor has regained elite form, and Jones’ poise has turned a once uncertain position into a clear strength. Perhaps most importantly, the organization’s culture appears reinvigorated. The synergy between front office decisions, coaching adjustments, and player execution has created an environment built for long-term success. Jones’ steadying presence at quarterback has become the embodiment of that transformation. While plenty of football remains to be played, Indianapolis has reason to believe its success is sustainable. If Jones continues to deliver the consistency that has defined his first ten starts, the Colts could make a deep run in a wide-open AFC. For now, the team’s focus is simple: build on what’s working, stay healthy, and keep proving that their early success is no accident.