In a surprising development, the New York Giants have made the bold decision to bench quarterback Daniel Jones. This move comes amid a season plagued by challenges and setbacks, not least of which is Jones's recent ACL tear diagnosed in 2023. As the Giants shift focus, questions loom about Jones's future with the franchise, and potential suitors may soon come knocking.
A Strategic Shift for the Giants
Joe Schoen, the General Manager, appears to be steering the Giants through some rocky terrain. While he is expected to continue leading the management team, his latest decision underscores a commitment to revamping a struggling offense. The Giants are grappling with the lowest red zone touchdown rate in the NFL at 39.3% and rank last in the league for completions of 20 or more yards—just 19 plays all season.
Head coach Brian Daboll is set to stay on the sidelines through 2025, providing some stability as the Giants look to rebuild. However, with these poor offensive metrics, it’s clear that changes are necessary to spur a turnaround.
The Daniel Jones Saga
Daniel Jones, now at a crossroads, faces the possibility of becoming a free agent as soon as Monday afternoon due to stipulations in his contract. Originally crafted as a two-year strategic agreement, the contract allowed flexibility—a gamble that seems to be steering the Giants toward a new quarterback approach.
The ACL injury complicates matters further for Jones. While sidelined due to injury, he still commands over $11 million in guaranteed salary for the remainder of the season. Any team considering acquiring Jones would have to factor in a prorated portion of his $1.1 million veteran minimum salary, a manageable sum for teams in need of an experienced signal-caller. Notably, potential destinations for Jones include the Chargers, Broncos, Cardinals, Vikings, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions.
A source alluded to by some reports 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."
Some speculate that despite the revolving door of coaches and coordinators, Jones is simply "who he is," even with the presence of a No. 1 receiver and a formerly solid offensive line.
Next Man Up
The choice to start Tommy DeVito as quarterback signals a new direction on the field. The undrafted rookie finds himself thrust into a starting role, entrusted with igniting a stagnant offense. Meanwhile, the team scouts future quarterback options, with college standouts like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward on their radar.
Saquon Barkley and the Franchise Tag
The decision around Jones isn't the only significant contract matter facing the Giants. Earlier this year, the franchise tagged Saquon Barkley after he declined a long-term offer worth $13 million annually. This strategic move retained their star running back for another season, though his future with the team may still be in question.
As the Giants navigate this period of uncertainty, the organizational reshuffling aims to address significant areas of weakness. With pivotal decisions looming, both on and off the field, the coming weeks will certainly test the resolve and ingenuity of New York's storied franchise.
For Daniel Jones, it's another test of resilience. As one source remarked, "He's a worker bee. He loves activity. He will want to play." His will and determination may yet steer his career path, possibly ushering in a new chapter should a fresh opportunity present itself elsewhere in the league.