The New York Giants are showing signs of potentially benching starting quarterback Daniel Jones after head coach Brian Daboll offered a less-than-committed response about his future as the starter. When asked about Jones’ role following the team’s recent losses, Daboll’s reply was more reserved than in previous weeks.
The team is heading into a bye week, which gives the coaching staff extra time to evaluate the team’s performance and consider changes, especially as they prepare to face the Buccaneers on Nov. 24. This pause in the season could be the ideal opportunity for the Giants to try a new quarterback, given the poor results with Jones thus far.
Jones has struggled this season, with his injury history adding to concerns. Although benched, the Giants might risk activating a $23 million injury guarantee in his contract if they keep playing him while he’s in poor health. The Giants have lost 13 of the last 16 games Jones has started since his $160 million contract extension, a period during which he has thrown nine or fewer touchdowns in four out of five seasons.
His recent performance included two costly interceptions in a narrow overtime loss to the Panthers. By comparison, backup quarterbacks like Tyrod Taylor and Tommy DeVito have shown slightly better results, sparking speculation about whether Jones remains the best option.
Should the Giants bench Jones, Daboll and his staff could consider backups Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito. Lock has 23 NFL starts under his belt and signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Giants, showing the team’s interest in him as a potential starter.
If the Giants opt for Lock, it could affirm their belief in his abilities and signal to the team and future free agents that performance can lead to playing time. Alternatively, starting DeVito would allow the Giants to evaluate a younger quarterback who has quickly become a fan favorite, known for his energetic playing style and local roots, which have endeared him to fans.
The decision to bench Jones may require input from Giants ownership, particularly John Mara, who has historically been involved in quarterback decisions, including the previous benching of Eli Manning.
Daboll confirmed that ownership is kept informed on major team decisions, suggesting that Mara’s input could be essential if a quarterback change is made. Daboll emphasized that communication with ownership and among the coaching staff remains crucial, highlighting the organization’s collective responsibility for any significant lineup adjustments, especially at the quarterback position.
Beyond Jones’ struggles, Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen face broader issues with the Giants’ roster and performance. The team has been plagued by weaknesses in rushing defense, turnovers, and special teams, which have masked Jones’ struggles to some extent but also suggest that a quarterback change may only address one of many issues. Daboll acknowledged the disappointment shared by himself, Schoen, ownership, and the players, underlining a unified but frustrated front as they look for solutions to turn around the season.
