**Giants Release QB Daniel Jones Following Request**

The New York Giants have officially parted ways with quarterback Daniel Jones, who was benched earlier this week and not expected to return to the starting lineup. The decision came after Jones requested his release, which the team granted. This ends Jones's stint with the Giants after being chosen as the No. 6 overall pick.

The Giants announced Jones's entry into waivers on Saturday, with the likelihood of him being claimed considered slim due to his substantial four-year, $160 million contract signed in March 2023. Giants president John Mara expressed mutual agreement on the release, acknowledging Jones’s professional conduct throughout the situation. Mara stated, "Daniel has been a great representative of our organization, first class in every way.”

Jones himself broke his silence shortly before his release, taking responsibility for the team’s mixed performance during his tenure. "The opportunity to play for the New York Giants was truly a dream come true," Jones said, extending his gratitude to teammates, coaches, and staff he worked with over the past six years.

Financially, the Giants faced a challenging scenario. Releasing Jones now results in significant dead cap hits of $47.1 million in 2024 and $22.1 million in 2025, while freeing up $19.4 million in cap space for next year. Alternatively, a post-June 1 release would have spread the financial impact over additional years, but both the team and Jones favored concluding the matter sooner rather than later.

Jones’s season was less than stellar, with a 2-8 record as a starter, a 63.3% pass completion rate, 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions. The Giants initially benched Jones to mitigate the risk of a $23 million injury guarantee, although there were claims it was purely a "football decision." His subsequent relegation to lower roles within the team and his participation in practice at an unfamiliar position made headlines.

This release marks a pivotal moment for both the Giants and Jones, allowing the quarterback to seek new opportunities while the team moves forward with its plans. After clearing waivers, Jones will be free to sign with any NFL team.