The New York Giants have decided to move on from Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback after six seasons. This shift comes as the team gears up to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following a bye week, with Tommy DeVito stepping in as the new starter.
Jones’s tenure with the Giants has been marked by ups and downs. After being selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, he faced significant challenges, including a high rate of fumbles and difficulties in adjusting to new coaching staff and playing styles. A standout performance in a contract year in 2022 was overshadowed by his current struggles, with the team holding a 2-8 record for the season and losing five consecutive games.
The decision to bench Jones comes after a series of poor performances, including a particularly disheartening 28-3 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles, after which head coach Brian Daboll felt the need for a change. This decision also reflects considerations about Jones’s contract, particularly an injury guarantee that could trigger a $23 million payout if he were to sustain a serious injury.
Jones is under contract for two more years, with a complex financial situation ahead of him. The Giants face potential salary cap hits if they release or trade him, but they might avoid guaranteed payments by acting promptly.
The choice to start DeVito, who previously showcased potential as an undrafted free agent, raises questions about his ability to elevate the team. Coach Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen are now under pressure to prove that Jones was the primary issue causing the team’s struggles. If the offense continues to falter under DeVito or any other replacement, the coaching staff may need to evaluate their strategy moving forward.
In the locker room, players, including tight end Daniel Bellinger, have expressed their support for Jones, highlighting his leadership qualities. However, as the Giants look ahead to potentially drafting a new franchise quarterback in the 2025 draft, options like Miami’s Cam Ward or Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders are being considered.
This turning point may be challenging for the team, yet it presents an opportunity for fresh talent and renewed energy. The Giants are at a crossroads, but with proactive changes, there is hope for a brighter future. As they embark on this new chapter, fans can remain optimistic about the team’s potential to rebuild and bounce back in the coming seasons.