The New York Giants have made a significant decision regarding their starting quarterback, as they begin the process of moving on from Daniel Jones in what many are calling the end of the “Danny Dimes” era in New York. Amid a disappointing 2-8 record this season, the Giants will bench Jones in favor of Tommy DeVito, a fan favorite and the team’s backup quarterback.
This change comes after the Giants suffered their fifth consecutive loss against the Carolina Panthers on November 10, in a game that went into overtime. Jones, who was drafted sixth overall by the Giants in 2019, is facing a difficult season not only in performance but also due to contractual implications. His current contract includes a clause that would guarantee him a hefty $23 million in 2025 if he were to fail a physical due to an injury sustained this season.
Despite ensuring that contractual considerations are not influencing their football decisions, Giants general manager Joe Schoen previously stated that any changes would be purely based on team performance. The decision to bench Jones echoes similar situations in the NFL, where teams have made quarterback adjustments to sidestep potential significant financial commitments related to injury clauses.
Daniel Jones is now in the second year of a lucrative four-year, $160 million extension but has no guaranteed money beyond this season. If the Giants decide to cut him this offseason, they would incur $22 million in dead money while they search for a new franchise quarterback, potentially eyeing a promising draft class filled with talent.
As the Giants turn to DeVito, they are opting for a third-string quarterback over Drew Lock, who had signed a one-year contract worth $5 million earlier this year. DeVito, a native of New Jersey and former standout at Syracuse, won the hearts of Giants fans last season by leading the team to three consecutive victories. His underdog story has made him a beloved player among the fanbase, further fueling hope for a revitalization of the team’s prospects.
Looking ahead, the Giants will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium this Sunday. Fans are hopeful that DeVito can authentically embody the spirit of the team and possibly revive their season.
This decision marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, and while changes can be challenging, they often bring fresh opportunities for growth and success. The Giants’ commitment to exploring new talent could foster a new chapter in their journey, and fans are eager to see how DeVito will rise to the occasion.