The New York Giants have made a pivotal decision by benching starting quarterback Daniel Jones during a challenging season marked by a 2-8 record. In his place, the team will turn to backup Tommy DeVito, a player who has garnered considerable support from fans.
This change comes after Jones led the Giants to their fifth consecutive loss in a recent overtime matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Interestingly, this decision also serves to protect the organization, as Jones has a clause in his contract that could guarantee him $23 million in 2025 if he fails a physical due to injury this season.
It’s not unusual for quarterbacks, who often command the highest salaries on the team, to have such stipulations in their contracts. Giants general manager Joe Schoen previously remarked that any decision regarding the benching would be purely based on football performance, rather than contractual concerns.
Daniel Jones has become part of a trend where quarterbacks are benched to prevent triggering lucrative injury clauses. Notably, Russell Wilson was benched by the Denver Broncos last year for this reason, and Derek Carr was kept on the sidelines by the Las Vegas Raiders to avoid a significant payout.
Currently, Jones is in the second year of a four-year, $160 million extension with the Giants. If they choose to release him after this season, they would face a $22 million dead money hit while seeking a new franchise quarterback in a draft that showcases several promising prospects.
As for DeVito, he has some familiarity with Giants fans, having previously played for Syracuse and stayed with his parents in Cedar Grove during his rookie season. Known affectionately as “Tommy Cutlets,” he won hearts by leading the team to three consecutive victories last year, earning local appearances and support.
The Giants are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium soon, which will be an important game for both the team and DeVito as he steps into the starting role.
This shift could signal a new beginning for the Giants, offering a fresh perspective and hoping to revitalize a faltering season. Fans and the team alike may embrace this as an opportunity for growth and renewed energy.