The New York Giants have officially parted ways with quarterback Daniel Jones, marking the end of his six-year tenure with the team. This decision came just days after head coach Brian Daboll announced Jones would be benched, leading to widespread speculation about the quarterback's future. The team confirmed the release Friday morning through Giants president John Mara, who revealed, "Daniel came to see me this morning and asked if we would release him. We mutually agreed this would be best for him and for the team." This announcement follows what has been viewed as a tumultuous season for Jones, who was the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and had high expectations placed upon him.
Jones's release marks a significant shift for the Giants, who, after struggling with a disappointing 2-8 record this season, have decided to move forward with other options at quarterback. Tommy DeVito has been named the starter, replacing Jones, who was relegated to practicing as the scout-team safety—a surprising and awkward sight for fans watching from the sidelines. Seeing the former franchise quarterback take on such roles illustrated the downward spiral of his career with the Giants, where inconsistency and injuries have marred his performance.
Reflecting on his time with the Giants, Mara expressed disappointment over how things unfolded, stating, "We are all disappointed in how things have worked out. We hold Daniel in high regard and have great appreciation for him. We wish him nothing but the best." Teammates shared similar sentiments. Receiver Darius Slayton expressed sadness at the departure, noting the unique bond he shared with Jones as fellow draftees. Slayton said, "A good friend of mine just left the building, so obviously this has some sadness to it. Six years together, it’s a long time." Tight end Daniel Bellinger echoed these feelings, describing the challenge of letting go of someone who had been both mature and competitive.
Before his release, Jones had struggled considerably this season and had tallied 2,070 passing yards, eight touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a passer rating of 79.4. Not only did these figures highlight his struggles, but they also pointed to the frustrations felt throughout the organization. With the team holding aspirations for more significant accomplishments, the poor financial return on such high expectations led to this dramatic change. Jones was part of the Giants for several ups and downs, including the team's brief return to the playoffs last season, which now feels distant compared to current performances.
The decision to release Jones now rather than at the end of the season holds strategic importance for the Giants as they look to rebuild their roster. This move frees the team of having to account for his contract, which was notable for its lucrative terms. Jones's four-year, $160 million deal, signed after last season, included significant guaranteed money and injury protections—elements complicated by his recent performance. Under current circumstances, releasing him means the Giants will still incur a $22.2 million dead cap charge for the 2025 season but can otherwise pursue new avenues, including drafting another quarterback.
Despite his difficulties with injuries—most recently suffering from an ACL tear last year—Jones remains optimistic about his future. After his release, he expressed his commitment to tackling the challenges head-on. Teammate Drew Lock, who had been signed to back up Jones earlier this season and found himself impacted by the changes, remarked on the possibility of new opportunities down the road. "It's tough to see it end this way for him after how much he had invested here," said Lock. "I’m going to miss him."
Looking forward, Jones will have to clear waivers before becoming officially free to sign with another team. If he’s claimed off waivers, the new team would take on approximately $12 million of his 2024 salary. If not, he can sign elsewhere for significantly less, potentially meaning $375,000 for the rest of the season—fueled by the hope of proving himself again.
The Giants now have to move swiftly as they prepare for the final weeks of the season. With DeVito expected to lead the team through the remainder of the timeline, they aim to find stability and rediscover competitiveness. The impending changes could very well define the next chapter for both Jones and the Giants as they navigate through this rebuilding phase.
Jones enters a new chapter of his professional career, potentially ready to make his mark with another franchise. While his time with the Giants may have ended with disappointment, the competitive spirit cultivated during his time there might just pave the way for his next opportunity. The NFL is known for its unpredictability, and as Jones surveys the playing field, he may find fresh chances awaiting him.
Giants management has made one thing clear—each player’s future is uncertain, and the team is striving for reform. Their consistent adjustments could also reshape the roster entirely, with Jones’s exit shedding light on just how quickly fortunes can change within professional football.
