How Colts QB Daniel Jones’ transition tag will work in the NFL originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
The Indianapolis Colts take the next step under Daniel Jones.
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However, it does not involve a contract extension or franchise tag. Instead, it involves the little-known conversion tag.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday that the Colts have placed the transition tag on Jones.
Jones is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, but as long as he’s healthy, he looks to be the Colts’ top option at quarterback.
But how exactly does this work? Here are some answers.
More: Cowboys show NFL salary cap is (mostly) fake
How much does the transition tag cost for a QB?
According to Schefter, Jones’ transfer fee will reach $37.833 million.
That’s $6 million cheaper than the QB franchise tag.
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It only covers the 2026 season, but there’s a catch.
How do transition tags work?
The transition tag differs from the franchise tag in that it allows for negotiations with other teams.
If a team uses the franchise tag, the player belongs solely to them.
In this setup, another team could offer Jones a contract this offseason.
The transition tag allows the Colts to match the offer sheet given to Jones — so technically, they guarantee they’ll be able to retain him, no matter what.
It will be interesting to see if any other teams make a big offer to him in free agency now.
