In a shock, quarterback Daniel Jones has been released from the NY Giants in just a few days after he was demoted to the third-string quarterback. This was a “mutual decision” between Jones and the organization through New York Giants president John Mara, per ESPN, though this comes after the quarterback was further demoted to the fourth-string quarterback and was forced to played as a scout team safety. Here’s a breakdown of what happened to Jones and why he was cut.
Why was QB Daniel Jones released?
Daniel Jones was released after he requested to be after he was benched on Monday, November 18, allowing him to look for other opportunities to be signed with another team instead being sidelined for the rest of the season.
Jones was initially benched due to his rough performance in the 2024-5 NFL season, with the Giants having a 2-8 record and him having a low passer rating. He also had a 3-13 record over the last two seasons, sustaining multiple injuries in 2023. The Giants organization also wanted to insure that the injury guarantee clause in his contract would not be enacted, where it would need to pay Jones $23 million if he suffered a significant injury and couldn’t play by March 2024.
His release also puts into context the tearful farewell he made to the team on Thursday in a prepared statement at a full press conference. At the time, many fans wondered why he would make an emotional goodbye when he had not been officially cut.
In the statement, he said: “Of course, this season has been disappointing for all and of course I wish I could have done more. I’m 100% accountable for my part. … I’m excited for the next opportunity. I know there is a lot of good football in front of me and I’m excited about that.”
Now that Jones has been released, he will need to go through waivers. However, the likelihood that another NFL would consider taking over his 4-year, $160 million contract is low.
Previously third-string quarterback Tommy DeVito has been elevated to the starting quarterback for the New York Giants, interestingly above Drew Lock who remains as the backup quarterback.
