The New York Giants find themselves among the teams speculated to be eyeing a quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft, despite having already committed to another signal-caller with a lucrative extension last offseason.
Daniel Jones endured a forgettable 2023 season, facing numerous challenges. Starting the year with a 1-4 record, he managed only 2 touchdowns against 6 interceptions while enduring 28 sacks in just five games. His season took a turn for the worse when he suffered a neck injury, causing him to miss three games. Upon his return in Week 9 against the Las Vegas Raiders, Jones suffered a torn ACL, prematurely ending his campaign.
Despite the setbacks, Jones showcased promise in 2022, throwing for 3,205 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions while posting a 9-6-1 record as the starter. Notably, he led the team to an upset victory against the Minnesota Vikings during Super Wild Card Weekend.
However, the question remains whether his 2022 performance is sufficient to solidify his position as the starter following the challenges of 2023. Giants owner John Mara remains steadfast in his confidence in Jones.
“I still have a lot of confidence in Daniel,” Mara stated. “I think the Daniel that we saw in 2022 is the real deal. Last year he was hurt, a lot of his offensive linemen were hurt, and things just did not go our way. But I still have all the confidence in him and his capabilities. Hopefully, he will be able to go by training camp, and yes, I think we all expect him to be the starter in 2024.”
However, Mara also indicated this week that he wouldn’t impede general manager Joe Schoen from drafting a quarterback he admires — even if it entails moving up in the draft.
“If they fall in love with a quarterback and believe that it’s worth pick No. 6 or moving up, I certainly would support that,” Mara expressed.
Reports from SNYtv have suggested that the Giants are open to trading up for a quarterback, contingent on the circumstances. USC’s Caleb Williams is anticipated to be chosen first by the Chicago Bears, followed by prospects like Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels possibly going second and third. Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy could emerge as the fourth quarterback taken, but the question remains: Will he be available for the Giants at No. 6, and how highly do they value him? Would they be willing to trade up to secure him?
The Giants are going to be forced to make some decisions in the 2024 NFL Draft, but their owner hasn’t lost faith in their current QB1.