Quarterback Shake-Up: Giants Bench Daniel Jones
The New York Giants have initiated a pivotal shake-up in their quarterback lineup, as Daniel Jones has been relegated to the bench. This move marks a significant juncture for the Giants and potentially for Jones's career. With Jones potentially hitting free agency as early as Monday afternoon due to specific contract stipulations, the implications are manifold for both player and franchise.
General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll, whose leadership roles appear secure past this season, will helm this transition period. This strategic benching of Jones comes in the aftermath of a two-year contract that aimed to solidify the quarterback’s position within the team. However, with Jones sidelined after an ACL tear sustained in 2023, the Giants have had to rethink their approach to who will lead their offense.
Financial Nuances and Potential Suitors
Despite his benching, Jones stands to collect over $11 million in guaranteed salary for the remainder of the season, a testament to the front office’s initial belief in his potential. However, as the team contemplates its future direction, prospective suitors are emerging, including teams such as the Chargers, Broncos, Cardinals, Vikings, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions. These teams may be willing to assume the prorated portion of Jones's $1.1 million veteran minimum salary in pursuit of bolstering their quarterback roster with Jones's skills.
According to an unnamed source, the conviction once held in Jones's ability to unlock his potential is waning. "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’ Offensive Struggles
An inspection of the Giants' current standings highlights a series of offensive struggles, potentially propelling the benching decision. As it stands, the team is at the bottom of the NFL in completions of 20 or more yards, having achieved only 19 such plays this season. Moreover, their red zone touchdown rate is the league’s lowest at 39.3%. With the team's offensive woes glaringly obvious, it appears the Giants are scouting for fresh talent, keeping an eye on college quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward.
Jones's performance might not be the sole factor influencing the Giants' standing. Another anonymous source suggests that external factors may be at play: "He got a No. 1 receiver. Offensive line was good when Andrew Thomas was in there. Maybe [Jones] is who he is."
The Rise of Tommy DeVito
In a significant move, Tommy DeVito has now been installed as the starting quarterback, symbolizing a new chapter for the Giants. DeVito's promotion comes amidst the broader context of a team in search of a renewed identity and competitive edge. Interestingly, an insider familiar with Jones's approach commented, "He's a worker bee. He loves activity. He will want to play."
As the Giants navigate this transitional phase, the fate of their star running back Saquon Barkley also lingers in narrative threads. Barkley, having turned down a long-term deal worth an annual $13 million back in February 2023, saw the franchise tag applied to him following this decision. With key players and decisions looming over the franchise, the Giants' journey through the next few weeks will be pivotal.
While the Giants assess potential prospects and restructuring strategies, the franchise remains committed to recalibrating and rising above its current challenges. With seasoned figures like Daboll and Schoen steering the ship, the team aims to re-emerge as a formidable force in the ensuing NFL seasons.