Daniel Jones' Market Heats Up as Giants Move On
ICARO Media Group
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The New York Giants have decided to part ways with quarterback Daniel Jones following his underwhelming performance on a significant four-year, $160 million contract. This contract included a notable $23 million injury guarantee for 2025, which contributed to the Giants' decision to bench Jones. Despite clearing waivers due to his remaining base salary, Jones is not expected to remain a free agent for long.
Jones, who has faced intense scrutiny since Eli Manning's departure, is now attracting interest from several NFL teams. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens are among the potential suitors. The decision on which team Jones will join could be influenced by the results of Week 12 games, as per Schefter. The sixth-year quarterback is reportedly keen on joining a contender.
Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz has highlighted additional teams that may enter the race for Jones, including the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Miami Dolphins. These teams are likely to view Jones as, at minimum, a valuable backup for the remainder of the season. Moreover, CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones brings attention to the Buffalo Bills as another viable landing spot, supported by league insiders.
The possibility of landing Jones has piqued interest across nearly one-third of the NFL, underlining the importance of a high-quality backup at this stage in the season. With the Giants still owing Jones $13.81 million in guaranteed salary for 2024, any acquiring team would only need to cover the prorated $1.1 million veteran minimum for the current year. This fiscal structure makes Jones an attractive option for teams looking to secure talent ahead of 2025.
The Ravens’ interest adds another layer to the puzzle, as Jones could be a strategic move within their personnel planning. Baltimore has experienced several absences from star quarterback Lamar Jackson in recent years and has historically benefited from compensatory draft picks. Acquiring Jones could potentially position the team to gain a Day 3 draft choice if he moves again in 2025.
In the NFC North, both the Lions and the Vikings see value in Jones. Detroit's quarterback depth is notably thin behind starter Jared Goff, while Minnesota could also benefit from Jones as an insurance upgrade. Additionally, the Miami Dolphins’ quarterback situation in light of Tua Tagovailoa’s injury history makes Jones a sensible addition to their roster. The potential for Jones to impact any of these teams as a reliable backup or even a future starter adds urgency to their interest.
Other teams, such as the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers, also find themselves in the conversation. With both teams vying for playoff positions, the addition of Jones could provide a significant boost. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers are dealing with Brock Purdy's shoulder injury, heightening their interest in a dependable backup like Jones. Jones’ potential appeal to the 49ers is further amplified by the opportunity to work under renowned play-caller Kyle Shanahan.
The Giants will face financial consequences from this move, with the full $22.2 million of Jones' contract hitting their books next year regardless of where he lands. As the Giants shift gears with Tommy DeVito stepping into the starting role, Jones' next destination remains a compelling storyline. One team will soon gain an unexpected and valuable addition, with another free agency turn on the horizon for Jones in March 2025.