INDIANAPOLIS -- Daniel Jones has not enjoyed the past several months after going from starting quarterback to backup.

And that is why the new Indianapolis Colts signee is grateful for the opportunity to return to the starting lineup next season.

Jones said Thursday the Colts expressed to him the same things they've said publicly: that they intend for Jones to compete with the team's returning starter, Anthony Richardson, for the starting job.

"That's been the communication," Jones said after meeting with the Colts' staff, including coach Shane Steichen. "[It's] an opportunity to come in and compete, and I'm looking forward to that. ... A lot of respect for Anthony, watching him. I think he's certainly a talented young player, and I think the competition aspect of it brings out the best in everybody. And I think we're both interested in helping this team win games and whatever we can do to help that happen."

Jones, drafted sixth overall by the New York Giants in 2019, was benched by the team midway through last season. He then asked for and received his release from the team on Nov. 22, signing with the Minnesota Vikings shortly after.

Jones spent most of his time in Minnesota on the practice squad, but it gave him a great vantage point for watching Sam Darnold resurrect his career with the Vikings. Darnold, who was on his fourth team in Minnesota, came off the bench and led the Vikings to a 14-3 record and a playoff berth. The Seattle Seahawks this week signed him to a $100.5 million contract.

Could Jones see himself doing something similar? Time will tell, but Darnold provided a blueprint.

"The way Sam prepared every week, how detailed and diligent he was with every single aspect of the game plan, starting the week, building it up, how he prepared for practice, how he reviewed practice, how he prepared, how he watched film -- all that stuff was really impressive to me," Jones said. "I thought he did a really good job focusing on just kind of what was immediately right in front of him, what was most important that day. So, I have a ton of respect for Sam."

As for the situation in New York, where Jones was 24-44-1 as a starter, those experiences will remain part of who Jones is.

"We had some good times, had some not-as-good times," he said. "Ultimately, we didn't win consistently enough. But I learned a lot and enjoyed the time in New York. Learned a lot from a lot of different people throughout the process, so feel fortunate to have had the experience there. But I'm excited for what's ahead.

"I'm excited to be here in Indianapolis."