New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is navigating a pivotal point in his professional NFL career. Having displayed notable improvement in the 2022 season, Jones secured a substantial four-year, $160 million contract with $81 million guaranteed during the offseason. This investment by the Giants' front office underscores their belief in Jones as their franchise quarterback. However, his 2023 season was derailed by an ACL tear, which has cast a shadow on his path forward.
One of the key challenges Jones faced in 2023 was playing behind a struggling offensive line. The Giants' offensive line earned the lowest pass-blocking grades from Pro Football Focus and ranked 24th in ESPN's pass-block win rate. These metrics starkly illustrate the obstacles Jones had to confront, contributing to his underwhelming performance that year. Jones averaged a mere 6.6 yards per attempt, throwing two touchdowns against three interceptions without pressure.
Despite these setbacks, Jones' 2022 campaign provides a glimmer of hope. That season, he averaged 7.1 yards per attempt while throwing 11 touchdowns and just four interceptions from a clean pocket. This statistical improvement is one of the reasons Giants' co-owner John Mara remains optimistic about Jones' potential.
"Listen, I'm still happy we gave him that contract because I felt he played really well for us in '22," Mara said, emphasizing the positive aspects of Jones' performance before his injury and the struggles of the offensive line. "Last year he got hurt and, let's be honest, when he was playing, we weren't blocking anybody. So let's give him a chance with a better offensive line and some weapons around him and see what he can do."
Mara's comments highlight the team's recognition of their offensive shortcomings and their commitment to providing Jones with a better support system moving forward. The inclusion of LSU standout Malik Nabers in the draft is part of that strategy, adding a dynamic weapon to the Giants' offensive arsenal.
Moreover, the Giants' decision not to trade up in the draft for a new quarterback speaks volumes about their confidence in Jones. "We made a decision to stay with Daniel and add a weapon for him, and I think that is going to work out for us," Mara stated. This decision reflects a belief that with improved protection and enhanced receiving options, Jones can fulfill the potential that earned him his lucrative contract.
As the Giants look ahead, the focus will be on building a stronger offensive line to shield Jones and allow him to showcase his skills. The team’s top executives remain supportive of Jones, dispelling any doubts about their commitment to him. The critical question remains: can Jones return to form and lead the Giants with the same promise he displayed in 2022?
Only time will reveal the outcome, but for now, the Giants have made it clear that Daniel Jones is their man. Their off-season moves and the faith expressed by the team’s ownership suggest they are all-in on giving him every opportunity to succeed.