What happened to Daniel Jones? Achilles injury fears as Colts backup QB Riley Leonard takes over

Daniel Jones' Achilles injury comes on top of an ongoing left fibula fracture that he has been managing since early November.

Updated on: Dec 8, 2025, 24:46:18 IST

By Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a potentially serious right-leg injury during Sunday’s Week 14 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) grabs his leg after an injury during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP)

What happened to Daniel Jones?

The injury occurred on a non-contact play in the second quarter. Jones immediately went down and was unable to continue, forcing him out of the game. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard entered in his place.

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Injury update

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Jones has been ruled out for the remainder of the game with what is feared to be an Achilles injury.

If confirmed, Achilles injuries typically require months of rehabilitation before a full return to activity.

This setback comes on top of an ongoing left fibula fracture that he has been managing since early November.

What experts say

Dr. Evan Jeffries, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, reacted to the injury on X.

"Daniel Jones went down with a non-contact right leg injury. The concern is this is he has a FIBULA fracture on Left side and compensating on Right. Worst case scenario: Achilles Tear. Best case scenario: Calf strain," he wrote.

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Fans react

Fans quickly took to social media to share their concern and support for Jones.

One person wrote, "I am praying Daniel Jones injury is nothing serious, he has gone through so much. He revived his career as the Quarterback of the Colts. Really heartbreaking to see."

Another expressed, "He brought the Colts back is what he did. He was a brave NFL QB. And in this house Daniel Jones is a hero. End of story."

A third person wrote, "Prayers: Daniel Jones is down with a non-contact lower leg injury. This looks really really bad."

Another fan added, "Daniel Jones threw his helmet after the injury. He knew… prayers up."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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