Daniel Jones Thrives with Colts, Credits Mentor David Cutcliffe for Career Resurgence

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones is experiencing a career resurgence in 2025, ranking among the league leaders in passing yards and completion percentage, leading the Colts to an 8-2 record and contention for the AFC's No. 1 seed. Jones attributes much of his success to his long-standing mentor, David Cutcliffe, his former college coach. After a challenging Week 9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers where Jones was sacked five times and committed five turnovers, he immediately sought Cutcliffe's guidance, who stressed fundamental reminders like ball security and offered crucial perspective. Cutcliffe was a stabilizing force during Jones's 'tumultuous' six seasons with the New York Giants, where he often lacked reliable support. Jones, described by Colts coach Shane Steichen as the 'hardest worker on the team,' continues to rely on Cutcliffe's demanding coaching, even doing on-field work before training camp. Jones also utilizes play-action fakes on 32.3% of his dropbacks, ranking third in the league.