Giants Pursue Veteran Quarterbacks After Missed Stafford Deal

INDIANAPOLIS — Following a failed attempt to secure quarterback Matthew Stafford, the New York Giants are intensifying their pursuit of veteran quarterbacks, including Aaron Rodgers, as the NFL scouting combine unfolds this week.

After an underwhelming 3-14 season, Giants general manager Joe Schoen acknowledged the team’s critical need for a reliable quarterback to spearhead their revival. The Giants hold the No. 3 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft but aim to bolster their roster with established talent in free agency.

Schoen stated, “In theory, yeah, you take the rookie quarterback. You’ve got to ensure that one of those guys is going to be there. Having a vet in place prevents the team from drafting for need, allowing them to select the best player available.”

Rodgers, 41, is currently under contract with the New York Jets but is expected to part ways with the team when the 2025 league year starts on March 12. With a history marked by excellence, including four NFL MVP awards, Rodgers has become a primary target for the Giants as they search for a franchise quarterback.

“The Giants took a swing at Matt Stafford. That failed. Now they’re looking at other options, including Rodgers,” an anonymous source noted. Both veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Sam Darnold are also rumored to be on the Giants’ radar.

Rodgers’ previous season with the Jets was marred by injury and franchise turmoil, culminating in a 5-12 record. Despite this, he threw for 3,897 yards, with 28 touchdown passes against 11 interceptions. As the Giants evaluate their options, Rodgers could serve as a stopgap quarterback while they develop a future star, should they draft one.

Meanwhile, the Jets are reportedly preparing for a restructuring phase by potentially trading or releasing Rodgers’ former teammates, wide receivers Allen Lazard and Davante Adams, before the new league year starts. Both players carry hefty salary cap implications that could affect the Jets’ financial flexibility.

As the Giants navigate their quarterback search, they are keenly aware of the pressure to improve following a disappointing 2023 season. “They need to bounce back,” Schoen reiterated, emphasizing the importance of securing a proven leader at quarterback.

Time will tell if the Giants can land Rodgers or another veteran signal-caller, but their recent approaches demonstrate a commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing a stagnant offense. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the franchise as free agency approaches and the draft looms.