In a heartfelt press conference, Daniel Jones addressed the media for the first time since being benched by the New York Giants in favor of Tommy DeVito. The 27-year-old quarterback expressed his disappointment in the team’s performance during his tenure as the starter and took full responsibility for the lack of victories, acknowledging that he was unable to consistently deliver results on the field.
Over the past six years, Jones has been a key player for the Giants, but after a difficult season that has seen the team languish with a 2-8 record and Jones himself struggling with eight touchdown passes but seven interceptions, the organization decided it was time for a change. Coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen met with Jones to inform him of their decision, explaining the need for a shift in direction given the current state of the team.
Reflecting on his time with the Giants, Jones said he wished there had been more wins, asserting, “Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me.” He acknowledged the challenges of winning in the NFL, highlighting that consistent performance is essential for success. Despite the emotional weight of his situation, he remains hopeful about the future, stating, “I know there is a lot of good football in front of me and I’m excited about that.”
As the Giants continue their season with seven games remaining, Jones remains uncertain about his own future with the team. He has expressed a desire to keep playing football, but his path forward could lead him elsewhere, especially given the $23 million injury guarantee for next season that complicates matters. The Giants have opted for DeVito to lead the team, a decision Jones understands, albeit not one he is happy about.
In the wake of this change, Jones found himself practicing in a different role, even stepping in as a scout team safety. This unusual position demonstrates the team’s current focus on moving forward as they look for a spark to turn their season around.
Emotional when discussing the support from his teammates, particularly his fellow 2019 draft picks Dexter Lawrence and Darius Slayton, Jones expressed gratitude for the relationships he has built within the organization. “I’ve created a lot of great relationships with the guys here,” he mentioned, underlining the camaraderie that defines a football team.
Ultimately, while the immediate reality may be challenging for Jones following his benching, there is still hope for a fresh start and new opportunities, whether with the Giants or elsewhere. As he continues to process this change, it’s clear that his passion for the game remains undiminished.
Overall, this moment represents a turning point for both Jones and the Giants, allowing for the possibility of growth, reflection, and renewed focus on the future.