EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Daniel Jones’ time as the New York Giants’ starting quarterback might be coming to an end. Five years ago, during his debut start, Jones showcased his potential with an impressive 46-yard throw to rookie receiver Darius Slayton in a thrilling comeback win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This play set high expectations for the No. 6 overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft, yet the aggressive quarterback displayed on that day has since faded.
In his rookie season, Jones had 35 completions in tight windows but has seen that number decline each subsequent year. The once-promising quarterback known for taking risks has become more conservative, with the most touchdowns he achieved in a season since then being 15 in 2022. The upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys marks a critical point for Jones, who needs to rediscover the bold playing style that initially impressed fans and the organization.
Though he has improved physically since 2019, becoming bigger and stronger, Jones’ aggressiveness has diminished. His average air yards per attempt have dropped from 7.8 as a rookie to 6.2 this season, indicating a shift away from downfield throws. Despite fewer turnovers, the lack of explosive plays weighs heavily on his performance.
The Giants’ management signaled uncertainty about Jones’ future this offseason, reportedly attempting to move up in the draft for a potential replacement. General manager Joe Schoen acknowledged that 2023 is a pivotal year for Jones, as the team evaluates whether he is the long-term answer at quarterback.
Jones has shown flashes of his old self in recent games, notably achieving a 52.7 QBR after a rough start to the season. However, he has struggled to maintain consistency and adapt to the current offensive strategies. With a contract that allows for an exit after this season, Jones will need to prove he can elevate his play to justify the investment the Giants made when they re-signed him to a four-year, $160 million deal.
The upcoming games will be crucial for Jones as he tries to balance making smart decisions and regaining the aggressive play style that once defined him. The Giants continue to express confidence in him, but as they face strong defenses, the challenges ahead could prove daunting. Jones must not only improve his performance but also re-establish himself as a playmaker if he hopes to secure his future with the team.