Giants LB explains why fans should believe in Daniel Jones as QB1 of the future
The discussion around Daniel Jones never settles in common sense. As a high-polarizing prospect since his selection in the 2019 NFL Draft, Jones never developed into an above-average quarterback, but his status as a first-round pick had plenty believing in him.
As he approaches a crucial season for his NFL future, it seems like the end of the road might be near for Jones in New York. He's returning from a serious injury, and after 2025, there won't be many cap ramifications for the Giants if they decide to release him.
But linebacker Bobby Okereke still feels that there's a viable path for him to lead the Giants into the playoffs. And as he appeared on Wednesday at the Up and Adams show, he gave his reasons as to why he believes fans shouldn't give up on the quarterback:
"From day one, first guy in, last guy out mentality. Obviously, he's a smart guy, went to Duke, and he just got poise. I mean, he's got a hell of an arm... It's go time. So we all know, we all feel the urgency. And I'm excited for him. His preparation, is second to none. He's gonna have a great year. He's faced a lot of adversity since he's been here - obviously, the scrutiny from New York fans is crazy. I experienced that this year. And injuries. He's dealt with a lot"
Daniel Jones has played in two playoff games throughout his career. He led the Giants to a Wild Card berth in 2022, when they upset the Minnesota Vikings before losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional Round.
Daniel Jones' contract: Can the Giants cut him in 2025?
That's more than possible, especially if the team decides that he's not good enough to lead them to bigger prizes. To be honest, they should've arrived to this conclusion a long time ago, but it's difficult to change your quarterback after a playoff run.
If the Giants release him in 2025, they'll incur a dead cap of $22.2 million, a much lower number than the $69.31 million they'll have to pay if they want to release him in 2024.
His cap hit for the 2024 season is $47.85 million.