Giants Quarterback Shake-Up Amidst Season Struggles
The New York Giants find themselves in the eye of a storm as they navigate a challenging NFL season under the leadership of General Manager Joe Schoen. The team has decided to bench quarterback Daniel Jones, a move that could have significant implications for the franchise's future and Jones's career prospects.
The Potential Departure of Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones, who is on a strategically structured two-year contract, may soon hit free agency due to specific contract stipulations. This development comes as the quarterback works to recover from an ACL tear suffered in 2023, a setback that has further complicated his tenure with the Giants. With over $11 million in guaranteed salary remaining for the season, Jones's future with the team looks uncertain.
As teams across the league assess their quarterback needs, potential suitors such as the Chargers, Broncos, Cardinals, Vikings, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions could consider acquiring Jones. Interested teams would bear the responsibility of a prorated portion of Jones's $1.1 million veteran minimum salary, which might make the prospect of a trade feasible. As an unnamed source noted, "When you watch that you can see why the Giants gave him six years. He works hard. Classy. Has the traits. 6-5 and can run. Everybody keeps thinking they can unlock him. But three head coaches and multiple coordinators later, maybe you have to look in the mirror."
The Giants' Struggles
Despite his desire to play and his reputation as a "worker bee," the Giants have transitioned to Tommy DeVito for their starting quarterback role. This season, New York has found itself at the bottom of the league in multiple statistical categories. They rank last in completions of 20 or more yards, having only managed 19 such plays, and possess the lowest red zone touchdown rate in the NFL at 39.3%. With these lackluster figures, it’s not surprising the Giants are exploring options beyond Jones, including scouting college quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward.
Jones, for all his physical attributes and work ethic, struggled to elevate the Giants' offensive game. As another source pointed out, "He got a No. 1 receiver. Offensive line was good when Andrew Thomas was in there. Maybe [Jones] is who he is."
Franchise Considerations
The possible departure of Jones sees the Giants needing a strategic approach to their rebuilding. General Manager Joe Schoen is expected to remain at the helm, offering some level of stability as they maneuver through this turbulent phase. Meanwhile, head coach Brian Daboll is expected to return in 2025, potentially providing a foundation for future success.
This period of transition extends beyond the quarterback position. Earlier this year, in February 2023, the Giants offered running back Saquon Barkley a long-term deal valued at $13 million annually, which he declined. In response, the franchise tag was used on Barkley, a move that underscores the complex dynamics at play as the Giants attempt to balance financial considerations with on-field competitiveness.
Looking Forward
As the Giants brace for a potential new era, fans and analysts alike will keep a keen eye on how the situation with Daniel Jones unfolds. Despite the disappointments, the fascination with Jones’s potential persists. "He's a worker bee. He loves activity. He will want to play," affirmed a source familiar with his approach, suggesting that wherever Jones may land, his drive will remain unyielded.
Only time will tell if the Giants can capitalize on this transitional period and rebuild a team capable of competing at the highest levels of the NFL. Until then, the franchise must confront both its present challenges and the decisions that will shape its future.