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The New York Giants announced Friday they will release quarterback Daniel Jones, granting his request to move on from the team.
Jones, who had been with the franchise for six seasons, met with team owner John Mara and head coach Brian Daboll Friday morning. After multiple discussions, both sides agreed it was best to part ways.
“Daniel has been a great representative of our organization, first-class in every way,” Mara said. “His handling of this situation yesterday exemplifies just that. We are all disappointed in how things have worked out.”
End of an Era
Jones, the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, had a rollercoaster tenure with the Giants. Over six seasons, he posted a 22-44-1 record as a starter, throwing for 70 touchdowns and 47 interceptions. He led New York to the playoffs in 2022, including a wild-card victory, which earned him a four-year, $160 million contract in March 2023.
However, this season was marked by struggles. Jones threw just eight touchdowns against seven interceptions and held a 3-13 record as a starter since signing his new deal.
Despite his frustrations, Jones reflected positively on his time in New York.
“There have been some great times, but of course we all wish there had been more of those,” Jones said in a statement. “I take full responsibility for my part in not bringing more wins. Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me and I gave everything I had on the field and in my preparation. Of course, this season has been disappointing for all and of course I wish I could have done more. I’m 100% accountable for my part. I did not play well enough consistently enough to help the team get results.
Why the Giants Made the Move
Jones’ release comes just days after being benched in favor of backup quarterback Tommy DeVito. The Giants, sitting at 2-8, are looking to develop younger talent as the season progresses.
DeVito, who went undrafted in 2023, will start Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Previously the third-string quarterback behind Jones and Drew Lock, DeVito has three career wins as a starter.
Another factor in the decision was financial risk. Jones’ contract included a $23 million injury guarantee for next season. To avoid being on the hook for that amount, the team limited his practice reps this week, even using him as a scout team safety during a walkthrough on Thursday.
Jones’ Future
Jones will now go through waivers, though it’s unlikely any team will claim the remainder of his $160 million deal, which would cost $12 million for the rest of this season. Instead, he is expected to sign with a new team after clearing waivers.
Jones remained optimistic about the next chapter of his career. “The reality of the NFL is it’s hard to win games. It requires consistent performance for everyone involved. We didn’t do that well enough, so the idea to change something happens and I understand. I love the game, I love being part of the team. I’m excited for the next opportunity. I know there is a lot of good football in front of me, and I’m excited about that.”
Reaction in New York
The Giants’ locker room seemed to anticipate Jones’ departure.
“It was inevitable,” outside linebacker Brian Burns said. “Might as well get it over with.”
The move will leave the Giants with $22.2 million in dead money next season.
Head coach Brian Daboll acknowledged the difficulty of the decision. “This was not an easy situation when things happen like this,” Daboll said. “Again, he came in [Friday] morning and talked to Mr. Mara. They had their discussion. We talked. Thought it was best for him to be able to do that. He put a lot into it. He’s a great young man. It’s never easy.”
Final Thoughts
Mara expressed gratitude for Jones’ time with the team. “We hold Daniel in high regard and have a great appreciation for him,” Mara said. “We wish him nothing but the best in the future.”
As Jones looks ahead to the next stage of his career, the Giants now turn to DeVito and a rebuilding phase in a challenging season.
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This report used information from ESPN.
