Colts quarterback Daniel Jones took another step in his recovery on Monday, receiving clearance to participate in 7-on-7 drills as he works back from a torn right Achilles tendon. Coach Shane Steichen praised the progression, noting Jones looked good during the session and will continue increasing his workload through the remainder of organized team activities.

Jones sustained the injury in early December during a loss at Jacksonville, also playing through a broken bone in his left leg at the time. The dual injuries derailed Indianapolis's promising start, as Jones struggled after the leg injury before missing the season's final stretch. He's been throwing throughout April's offseason program, maintaining steady progress toward the September 13 season opener against Baltimore.

The former Giants first-round pick signed a two-year contract extension worth up to $100 million in March and believes he'll be ready for Week 1. Meanwhile, the backup quarterback competition remains fluid with Anthony Richardson and 2025 pick Riley Leonard sharing snaps with the starting offense while Jones continues his rehabilitation.

Indianapolis added veteran Easton Stick on Monday, signing the former Chargers backup after releasing Seth Henigan. Steichen, familiar with Stick from their time together in Los Angeles, expects the newcomer to compete quickly while the team monitors Jones's continued progression.