The New York Giants quarterback depth chart has vastly changed in the past few days. They’ve released their former starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, who has signed with the Minnesota Vikings after clearing waivers. While he has moved on, Jones will always get the ire of Giants fans after failing to live up to his four-year, $160 million contract extension.
His stint with the Giants did have some highlights, especially in helping the team win a Wild Card Round game against his current team two years ago. Despite playing on the road, Jones had 24 completions for 301 yards and two touchdowns in that victory.
QB Daniel Jones plans to sign with Minnesota Vikings after clearing waivers. (via @rapsheet, @tompelissero, @cameronwolfe) pic.twitter.com/dJ28WMfqHj
— NFL (@NFL) November 27, 2024
Unfortunately, that win doesn’t outweigh the on-field struggles that have plagued him throughout his career. He had double-digit interceptions in his first two seasons and was limited to 11 games in 2021. Jones played 16 games in 2022 but can only generate 3,205 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Last year, the former first-round pick played in only six games due to a torn ACL, which was an unwanted ending during the first season after signing his massive extension. Before his release, the former Duke standout had 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
In his absence, the Giants named Tommy DeVito their Week 12 starter. However, an injury led the Giants to rule him out during their Thanksgiving Day game against their division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. Instead, Drew Lock will take his place.
The Giants acquired Lock this offseason via a one-year, $5 million deal. Before joining New York’s NFC team, he played four games for the Seattle Seahawks.
Lock expressed dismay when the Giants chose DeVito over him to start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He thought he was second in the depth chart behind Jones and should have the opportunity after Jones’ release.
Lock will finally get his chance against a team struggling to generate victories like them. Barring any injury and DeVito’s return, he could be the Giants’ starter until the regular season ends.
-Lance Fernandez