Mike Florio made an interesting prediction: Daniel Jones could end up being sidelined for the remainder of this season due to similarities with Russell Wilson leaving Denver and their two-five record as well as struggles on an injured offensive line. Florio provided evidence for this statement.
Florio states that Jones could receive what is dubbed as the ‘Russell Wilson treatment.’ He alludes to Sean Payton’s shocking benching of Wilson last season as an argument in favour of offering significant injury guarantees as an asset protection strategy; now this approach seems set to influence New York Giants as well.
In a similar vein to Wilson’s predicament, Jones’ contract includes a $23 million injury guarantee for 2025, which becomes fully guaranteed if he’s unable to perform due to injury. Florio emphasizes the financial bind teams find themselves in with such contracts, especially evident after Jones suffered seven sacks and numerous hits in the recent game against the Eagles.
The performance metrics are concerning, with Jones holding a 6-4 TD-INT ratio across seven games, notably losing all three division games and struggling in the spotlight of primetime matches. Despite this, Giants Head Coach Brian Daboll has stood by his quarterback, even after another tough loss.
The Giants face a delicate financial balance. By potentially releasing Jones post-June 1, they could save over $30 million in cap space but risk a substantial dead cap hit spread over two years if Jones suffers a severe injury.
The presence of Drew Lock warming up during the Eagles game has sparked discussion, adding pressure on Jones amidst criticisms of the team’s decision-making by figures like Bill Belichick and following a standout performance against them by former Giant Saquon Barkley.
John Mara’s Silence Signals Potential Shifts
At a documentary premiere, John Mara expressed a philosophy of patience except when discussing Daniel Jones, where he remained conspicuously silent—a move that speaks volumes about potential changes looming within the Giants’ organization.
This silence draws comparisons to Mara’s past behaviors, particularly his similar stance before making significant personnel changes. Florio warns that depending on the team’s final record, Mara’s current support could quickly shift.
As Andrew Thomas remains out with an injury, the Giants offensive line remains vulnerable, placing quarterback Eli Manning Jones both physically and financially at risk in every game play. With their significant investment into him already established, the Giants cannot afford another costly injury guarantee promise with him as their star player.
Florio suggests that Jones could soon be replaced by Drew Lock or Tommy DeVito – marking an unprecedented departure for their franchise quarterback. Like Wilson did with Denver, NFL business decisions may soon override team loyalty and past achievements.