The New York Giants are entering Year 3 of the Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll era, with both the general manager and head coach having proven their skills. In their first year, they exceeded expectations by leading the team to the playoffs. However, Year 2 was a major setback, raising concerns about whether they might be on the hot seat. Still dealing with issues from the previous regime, the 2024 season will be crucial, particularly when it comes to the quarterback position.
This season is critical for the Giants to determine if Daniel Jones is their long-term solution at quarterback. Despite signing a four-year, $160 million deal last offseason, Jones struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance throughout the campaign. As a result, the team explored the quarterback market during the offseason, even considering trading up in the draft. However, nothing materialized, meaning Jones is back as the starter for another year, with Drew Lock backing him up and Tommy DeVito in the No. 3 spot.
While the Giants are keeping their options open, an intriguing possibility could present itself during the season. Former first-round pick Mac Jones of the Jacksonville Jaguars might be a potential target leading up to the trade deadline. After failing to meet expectations with the New England Patriots, Jones had an impressive preseason with the Jaguars, securing the No. 2 quarterback role behind Trevor Lawrence. Given how many teams struggled with quarterback issues in 2023, Jones could be a hot commodity if a team like the Giants is seeking help at the position.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has ranked Mac Jones as the No. 8 player on his trade big board heading into Week 1, and he believes the Giants could be a potential suitor. According to Knox, “The Jaguars might not expect a massive haul for the 25-year-old since he’s entering the final year of his rookie contract, but desperation could lead to a team offering up a Day 2 draft selection or a capable player for him… The New York Giants might be willing to take a flier on Jones if Daniel Jones flops in what is possibly his last audition to be the team’s long-term starter.”
The Giants could indeed be a logical landing spot for Mac Jones, especially if Daniel Jones continues to struggle. However, the real question is how much of an improvement Mac Jones would bring to the team. If the season goes poorly, the Giants might be better off holding onto their assets, letting Lock or DeVito finish out the season, and then focusing on the 2025 NFL Draft to find a top quarterback prospect. Instead of making a mid-season trade, they could wait and rebuild through the draft.
