In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the New York Giants have officially parted ways with quarterback Daniel Jones. The Giants confirmed the news on Friday, marking the end of Jones' tenure with the team that selected him as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. As Jones prepares to navigate the next chapter of his career, he will be made available to all 32 NFL teams on Monday at 4 p.m. ET via the waiver process.
The waiver process in the NFL is an intriguing mechanism. If any of the 31 remaining franchises decide to claim Jones' existing contract, he will be compelled to join that team. However, if he passes through this process unclaimed, he will clear waivers, granting him the freedom to join any team as a free agent. This gives Jones a unique opportunity to assess his options and potentially align with a team that can best utilize his skills.
While the release from the Giants might have closed one door for Jones, it opens numerous others. Four teams have already emerged as potential suitors for Jones if he clears waivers: the Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, and Minnesota Vikings. Each team presents unique opportunities and challenges for the quarterback.
Potential Landing Spots
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly interested, partly due to their recent struggles with quarterback injuries. In recent seasons, the Cardinals have faced difficulties maintaining consistency at the quarterback position, which could make Jones an attractive option. His mobility and experience could provide the Cardinals with a much-needed boost as they seek stability in what has been an unpredictable NFC West division.
Similarly, the Denver Broncos have faced their own quarterback challenges, searching for the right fit since Peyton Manning's retirement. Jones' potential availability might be the answer to their ongoing quest for stability at the position. His experience could blend well with Denver's young and talented offensive roster.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers might view Jones as an insurance policy for their franchise quarterback, Justin Herbert. Should the Chargers decide to bolster their depth at the position, Jones' presence could provide an experienced backup option capable of stepping in if needed.
The Minnesota Vikings, currently led by veteran Kirk Cousins, could look to Jones as a potential successor. Integrating Jones now could allow them to develop him while Cousins remains the starter. In doing so, the Vikings would position themselves well for a seamless transition whenever Cousins' time in Minnesota comes to an end.
Jones' Options Moving Forward
For Jones, the waiver process is not the only pathway in the NFL. If he remains unclaimed, he is considering joining a practice squad. This option, though not ideal for a player of his stature, offers certain advantages. NFL teams are permitted to elevate practice squad players to the active roster up to three times during the season, providing Jones with valuable playing time and an opportunity to make his case for a permanent spot.
While it may seem like a step back, joining a practice squad might be the strategic move Jones needs to reinvigorate his career. By doing so, he would have the chance to showcase his talent, adaptability, and determination to return to a starting role, potentially setting up a comeback story for the ages.
Jones' departure from the Giants marks a significant shift in the NFL landscape, with several teams reconsidering their quarterback depth charts. Wherever Jones ends up, his journey will continue to be one of interest and intrigue for fans and analysts alike.
The coming days will reveal whether any team decides to take a chance on Jones in the waiver process, or if he will embark on a new journey via the practice squad route. Regardless of the outcome, Daniel Jones remains a player with potential and promise, ready to prove his worth on the grand NFL stage.