New York Giants Release Quarterback Daniel Jones

The New York Giants announced on Friday that they have released quarterback Daniel Jones, following a meeting between Jones, Giants president and owner John Mara, and head coach Brian Daboll. The decision was described as mutually agreed upon, with Mara stating, «It would be best for him and for the team.»

Jones, who was the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, spent six seasons with the Giants. Despite leading the team to the playoffs and a wild-card victory in 2022, Jones had a mixed record of 22 wins, 44 losses, and one tie. During his tenure, he threw 70 touchdown passes and 47 interceptions.

The Giants, currently standing at 2-8, had recently benched Jones in favor of Tommy DeVito. Jones expressed his disappointment at the decision, acknowledging his role in the team’s struggles this season. «Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me, and I gave everything I had on the field and in my preparation,» Jones said.

The release of Jones concludes a complicated season for the quarterback, who had signed a four-year, $160 million contract in March 2023. Any team picking him off waivers would need to cover around $12 million for the remainder of the current season.

Mara praised Jones for being «a great representative of our organization» and noted the difficulty of departing with a player of his character. Backup quarterback DeVito, who had been a third-stringer this season, is set to start on Sunday against the Washington Commanders.

The decision also has financial implications for the Giants, who will incur over $22.2 million in dead money next season. The move comes amid speculation concerning the Giants’ search for a future franchise quarterback, possibly looking towards the upcoming draft or other options.

Mara’s sentiments were echoed across the locker room. An unnamed outside linebacker reportedly stated, «It was inevitable. Might as well get it over with,» highlighting the expectation within the team of Jones’ departure.